NHPC Limited, recognized as a “Navratna” company by the Government of India, has recently announced the commencement of operations for the first generator unit (250 MW, Unit Number 2) of the Subansiri Lower H.E. Project. This event marks a significant advancement for what is the largest hydropower facility in India, boasting a total capacity of 2000 MW through eight units. Situated at the border of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, this landmark project began its commercial operations on December 23, 2025.
The inauguration was conducted virtually by the esteemed Union Minister of Power, Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, who heralded this achievement as a pivotal moment in NHPC’s history. He praised the project for its embodiment of commitment to sustainable energy, which not only aids in the development of North-East India but also contributes to the country’s Net Zero ambitions by bolstering the national power grid.
The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries including Shri Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary (Power), and Shri Mohd. Afzal, Joint Secretary (Hydro) from the Ministry of Power, alongside key NHPC officials such as Shri Bhupender Gupta, CMD and other directors. They collectively underscored the project’s role in enhancing the energy landscape of North-East India and its alignment with cutting-edge, sustainable energy solutions.
Shri Bhupender Gupta expressed deep gratitude towards the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Power, the state governments of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, previous NHPC leaders, and the project team for reaching this milestone. He emphasized the project’s importance in not only strengthening the grid but also in driving sustainable development and providing reliable renewable energy.
The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, upon full operation, aims to add significantly to India’s renewable energy output by generating 7,422 million units of electricity annually. It features a state-of-the-art 116-metre high concrete gravity dam, which is the tallest in North-East India, designed primarily for river water management and flood control.
This project is notable for incorporating some of the largest and most advanced hydroelectric components in India, such as the heaviest hydro generator rotors and the biggest main inlet valves. It also introduced innovative construction techniques, including the use of high-capacity aggregate processing and batching plants, as well as advanced concreting technologies.
Moreover, the Subansiri project plays a crucial role in flood moderation with a dedicated flood cushion and a substantial reservoir capacity, ensuring effective flood management in the region. NHPC has also invested significantly in riverbank protection to prevent erosion, benefitting communities downstream.
The socio-economic impact of the project is profound, providing power to 16 states, local employment during construction, and initiating community development programs that support local livelihoods. NHPC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility in the region includes educational, water, and sanitation projects, significantly enhancing the quality of life for local residents.
With a long-standing history of overcoming geographical challenges in hydropower development and expanding into other forms of renewable energy, NHPC continues to fortify its role in India’s energy sector, supporting the nation’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
