Government Actively Seeking Return of Power Projects from NHPC to Tackle Energy Deficit
J&K Generates 1,197.4 MW from 13 Hydropower Projects, Plans Expansion & NHPC Project Transfer
Jammu and Kashmir has reported a total hydropower generation capacity of 1,197.4 MW from 13 operational projects, with an annual design energy of 5,318.1 million units (MUs). The government is also actively pursuing the transfer of power projects from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) to bridge the region’s power generation deficit.
Responding to a starred question raised by MLA Kreeri-Wagoora Irfan Hafiz Lone, the government informed the Legislative Assembly that J&K’s state-owned hydropower projects contribute significantly to the region’s energy supply.
Key Hydropower Projects in J&K
- Baglihar-I & II – 900 MW (3,838.15 MUs)
- Lower Jhelum – 105 MW (609.45 MUs)
- Upper Sindh-I & II – 127.6 MW (554 MUs)
- Chenani-I, II & III – 32.8 MW (158.73 MUs)
- Ganderbal – 15 MW (90.15 MUs)
- Sewa-III – 9 MW (33.06 MUs)
- Pahalgam – 4.5 MW (14.92 MUs)
- Karnah – 2 MW (11.36 MUs)
- Bhaderwah – 1.5 MW (8.32 MUs)
Upcoming Hydropower Projects & NHPC Transfer
The government has 15 hydropower projects with a combined capacity of 7,768 MW at different stages of implementation.
- Under Construction: 3,063.5 MW
- At Award Stage: 141 MW
- DPR/Clearance Stage: 4,583.5 MW
Additionally, efforts are being made to transfer NHPC-run power projects to J&K to address the region’s energy deficit.
Power Subsidy & Infrastructure Upgrades
- 200 Units of Free Electricity under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PM SOMBY) for Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households.
- Amnesty Scheme: Consumers can clear outstanding electricity dues with waived interest/surcharge components.
- Infrastructure Boost: A 6.3 MVA receiving station is proposed at Wanigam under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) to address overloading issues at Hamrey and Sangrama receiving stations. The DPR is currently under appraisal by the Ministry of Power for funding.
These initiatives aim to strengthen J&K’s power sector, ensure reliable electricity supply, and support economic growth.
