Massive Rs 6.4 trillion plan to harness Brahmaputra hydropower

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has unveiled an ambitious Rs 6.4 trillion plan to evacuate over 76 gigawatts (GW) of hydroelectric power from the Brahmaputra basin by 2047. This initiative aims to meet India's growing energy demands and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The plan encompasses 208 large hydro projects across 12 sub-basins in northeastern states, with a significant portion of the hydro potential located in Arunachal Pradesh, which alone accounts for 52.2 GW.

According to the CEA's report, the first phase of the project, set to be completed by 2035, will require an investment of Rs 1.91 trillion. The second phase will demand an additional Rs 4.52 trillion. The overall plan includes the construction of over 31,000 circuit kilometres of transmission lines and the installation of 68 gigavolt-amperes (GVA) of transformation capacity. It also aims to establish 42 GW of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) capacity.

The Brahmaputra River, which originates in Tibet and flows through several Indian states, holds more than 80% of India's untapped hydro potential. The CEA's strategy is not only crucial for meeting the country's electricity needs but also addresses strategic concerns regarding China's construction of a mega-dam on the river. This Chinese project has raised fears about potential reductions in water flow during dry seasons in India.

The CEA's plan is a proactive measure to assert India's water rights and develop its hydro potential in response to the challenges posed by the upstream dam in China. The government aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel power generation capacity by 2030 and reach net zero emissions by 2070. The comprehensive transmission system plan is expected to play a vital role in transitioning India towards renewable energy sources while ensuring energy security for the future.