Arunachal Pradesh has launched a Rs 2000 crore overhaul of its power sector to modernise delivery systems, strengthen grid resilience, and electrify remote areas. Marking its most ambitious energy reform in decades, the state aims to meet rising demand, cut losses, and boost access with a clean, equitable and sustainable power roadmap across urban and rural regions.
The newly announced Chief Minister’s Comprehensive State Power Development Program—backed by a Rs 2000 crore investment over four years—aims to streamline power distribution, reduce technical losses, and ensure reliable access to electricity in both urban and rural regions.The state’s energy department has been tasked with a complete restructuring, with particular attention to strengthening the sub-transmission and distribution network in densely populated and newly formed districts.
Officials explained that while significant progress has been made since the power sector was delinked from the Central Public Works Department in 1992, persistent issues such as poor service reliability, high commercial losses, and the lack of access in remote pockets remain. The overhaul is expected to address these bottlenecks by upgrading urban infrastructure, laying new rural lines, and integrating decentralised renewable generation into the grid.
Officials confirmed that mini-hydropower units, which remain underutilised, will now be formally connected to the main grid to boost local power generation capacity.Arunachal aims to cut aggregate technical and commercial losses to under 15 per cent through a statewide rollout of prepaid smart meters. These will enable accurate billing and timely revenue collection, especially in urban and commercial zones. Officials also highlighted upcoming IT upgrades, including streamlined recharges, improved online billing, and real-time grievance redressal for better consumer experience.
In a strong move to improve operational efficiency and frontline service, the administration has ordered that every power division be equipped with utility vehicles for better field response. Officials also confirmed that strict safety guidelines for linemen and ground personnel would soon be enforced to mitigate electrical workplace hazards, long cited as a concern in the sector.
Renewable energy also featured prominently in the review, with energy department leaders pushing for expanded installation of rooftop solar panels, promotion of micro-hydro projects, and greater oversight by the Arunachal Pradesh Energy Development Agency (APEDA). The state government’s firm commitment to addressing systemic inefficiencies, introducing smarter technology, and strengthening safety norms points towards a long-term strategy focused on sustainability, reliability, and inclusion.
Arunachal CM Unveils Rs 2000 Cr Power Upgrade
