In a strategic intervention aimed at safeguarding Meghalaya’s energy future, state officials made a strong case for equitable treatment of Pump Storage Projects (PSPs) during the Regional Power Ministers’ Conference held in Gangtok.
Highlighting the critical importance of sustainable energy development, the delegation from Meghalaya raised concerns over proposed operational modalities for PSPs being advanced by the Ministry of Power and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs). According to the state’s senior power officials, the current framework disadvantages Meghalaya, failing to grant it benefits on par with those available for conventional hydropower initiatives. Officials argued that a revised, more inclusive approach would not only enable Meghalaya to leverage its considerable hydropower potential but also contribute significantly towards India’s overarching clean energy and net-zero goals.
The Union Power Ministry responded positively to Meghalaya’s concerns, assuring that fresh modalities will be crafted to ensure mutual benefits for both states and CPSUs. Officials stressed that these reforms must uphold a balance between environmental sustainability and economic viability, enabling states like Meghalaya to play a pivotal role in the national clean energy transition. The conversation also turned toward diversification of the state’s renewable energy mix. Central agencies encouraged Meghalaya to intensify efforts in developing solar power infrastructure, in keeping with the broader national strategy of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. However, state authorities reiterated that hydropower remains the most viable green energy option for Meghalaya, given its geographical advantages and water-rich terrain.
Pointing to its immense, yet underutilised hydropower reserves, Meghalaya called for more targeted support from the Centre, especially in the development of small hydropower plants. State officials requested technical guidance, financial incentives, and infrastructural support to accelerate these projects, which align closely with India’s sustainable development agenda. In discussions on resource adequacy planning, Meghalaya voiced reservations over the recently finalised plan by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). While affirming the state’s commitment to avoiding load losses and ensuring supply reliability, officials flagged the need for revisions that better reflect Meghalaya’s unique grid dynamics and energy demand profiles. The Union Power Ministry has promised expedited action to address these critical inputs.
Recognising the pressing need to enhance transmission capacity, Meghalaya further proposed the extension of initiatives akin to the North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP). Such expansion, officials argued, is vital for managing future load growth while maintaining grid resilience and stability across the challenging northeastern terrain. Amid these policy discussions, Meghalaya’s representatives also shared progress achieved in the state’s power sector over the past five years. Significant improvements in operational efficiency were reported, with Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses slashed from 32 percent in 2019 to a commendable 17 percent in 2024. Billing and collection efficiency have also witnessed marked enhancements, signalling robust internal reforms and better revenue management practices.
The state’s proactive stance at the conference reflects a broader vision to position Meghalaya as a key player in India’s renewable energy landscape. By demanding equitable policies, pushing for decentralised green energy projects, and strengthening its grid infrastructure, Meghalaya aims to not only meet its growing domestic needs but also contribute surplus clean energy to the national grid. As India intensifies its march towards a carbon-neutral future, the concerns raised by Meghalaya underscore the importance of inclusive policymaking that recognises regional specificities. Experts believe that ensuring fair treatment for smaller states in strategic sectors like energy will be vital for building a resilient, decentralised, and equitable green economy across the country.