Arunachal Pradesh is currently advancing 12 major hydropower projects with a cumulative installed capacity of 11,517 MW, signalling a shift towards clean energy and infrastructure-led growth in the strategically vital northeastern state.
State authorities confirmed that the projects are being developed through partnerships with three central sector hydropower public sector undertakings—North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO), Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVN), and National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). The agreements to implement these projects were formalised under memoranda of agreement signed earlier with the state government. As per power department officials, five of these projects totalling 2,620 MW have been allocated to NEEPCO, five more with a capacity of 5,097 MW to SJVN, and two large-scale ventures aggregating 3,800 MW to NHPC. These projects form the backbone of the state’s strategy to position itself as a clean energy powerhouse for the region and the nation.
Despite having a potential of over 58,000 MW in hydroelectric generation, only around one per cent has been utilised to date. This underlines both the challenges and opportunities facing the state as it moves to unlock sustainable energy resources while ensuring local communities benefit from equitable development. Officials in the state government stressed the importance of supporting generation capacity with robust transmission and distribution infrastructure. Recognising the need to prepare for immediate evacuation and distribution of the power to be generated, a comprehensive scheme is currently underway to strengthen the transmission and distribution (T&D) network across Arunachal Pradesh.
A recent high-level review meeting, chaired by a senior state cabinet functionary holding the power portfolio, revealed growing urgency in resolving bottlenecks in the T&D scheme’s execution. The meeting focused on accelerating the rollout of the grid infrastructure necessary to serve not only the upcoming hydropower stations but also remote and underserved regions that have historically struggled with energy access. The official highlighted that the government is determined to ensure reliable, efficient, and sustainable electricity delivery through this scheme, which is being implemented with the support of the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL). PGCIL has been directed to expedite pending works and maintain close coordination with district administrations, local legislative representatives, and the state power department to ensure timely and effective on-ground execution.
The review also examined progress on connectivity and integration challenges, especially in difficult terrains and ecologically sensitive zones. With Arunachal Pradesh’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem at stake, officials indicated that all infrastructure projects, including the T&D upgrades, are being carried out with an emphasis on environmental safeguards and community engagement. Experts pointed out that this massive energy infrastructure expansion aligns well with India’s national goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, while also contributing to the economic empowerment of northeast India through renewable energy-led development.
Arunachal’s topographical complexity, combined with its low population density and remote habitations, makes power transmission an engineering challenge. However, these challenges also underscore the criticality of building a sustainable and resilient grid that can withstand climate shocks while delivering consistent energy access. Government representatives reaffirmed their commitment to a clean energy future, noting that these efforts are also expected to significantly reduce dependency on fossil fuels and thermal power, thereby contributing to India’s broader decarbonisation roadmap.
While the progress in project commissioning is encouraging, the success of Arunachal Pradesh’s energy transformation will depend heavily on timely delivery of supporting infrastructure, transparent governance, and inclusive development planning. If executed well, the ongoing hydropower and T&D projects could emerge as a model for clean energy deployment in remote and mountainous regions, potentially replicable in other Himalayan states. The focus on clean power also ties into larger goals of building climate-resilient cities and promoting green jobs. With energy security becoming a cornerstone of sustainable urbanisation and regional stability, Arunachal Pradesh’s pivot towards renewable energy could play a pivotal role in reshaping India’s northeast as a low-carbon growth engine.
By prioritising renewable energy infrastructure and people-first planning, the state is signalling its intent to drive forward a model of development that balances ecological stewardship with economic opportunity. In an era where energy transitions are defining the global development agenda, Arunachal Pradesh is positioning itself firmly on the clean side of history.
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