Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed officials of the Energy Department to expedite efforts aimed at doubling the state’s power generation capacity over the next five years. This directive came during a comprehensive review meeting where Dhami underscored the pivotal role of enhanced coordination among the state’s key power entities.
The Chief Minister highlighted the urgency of timely project completions, stressing that energy and tourism are foundational pillars of Uttarakhand’s economic framework. He called for a rigorous safety audit of transformers ahead of the monsoon season and urged for swift progress in developing industrial infrastructure to bolster power generation capabilities.Dhami emphasised the swift completion of ongoing small hydropower projects and advocated for widespread adoption of solar rooftops in government buildings to ensure electricity availability. He also championed schemes like the Chief Minister Solar Self-Employment Scheme and urged maximum participation in the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme to benefit more residents across the state.
During the meeting, it was reported that several small hydropower projects, collectively generating 121 MW, are currently underway. Notable projects such as the Melekhet (24 MW) and Khutani (21 MW) Hydroelectric Projects are slated for completion by December 2026, while preparations for the Bernigad (22.80 MW) and Rayat (6 MW) Hydroelectric Projects are set to commence in the coming years.Additionally, feasibility studies are underway for significant pump storage projects including the 200 MW Lakhwar-Byasi, 150 MW Byasi-Katta Patthar, and 168 MW Kalagarh initiatives. The state is also progressing in energy storage with projects like the Tiloth, Khatima, and Dhakrani battery systems, each contributing 1 MW under development.Looking ahead, CM Dhami has instructed officials to expedite the construction of new powerhouses and upgrade transmission lines. He has also called for strategic initiatives to reduce line losses and accelerate plans to transition power lines underground, further enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability in Uttarakhand’s energy landscape.
