Assam's Power Demand Surges: New 3,200 MW Project Launched

Significant Power Demand Growth in Assam

Guwahati, Sept 20: Assam has exceeded its previous expectations by surpassing 3,000 MW in peak power consumption this year, with demand increasing at a rate of approximately 9% annually, which is faster than the national average, as stated by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday.

During the Bhumi Pujan ceremony for the 3,200-MW Ultra Super Critical Thermal Power Project in Chapar, Dhubri, Sarma highlighted that the state's peak power demand has already reached 3,240 MW, indicating a pressing need for enhanced generation capacity.

“This year, Assam's maximum power consumption has hit 3,240 MW. In comparison, the national demand has risen by 6%, while Assam's demand is growing at 9% annually,” Sarma noted.

He projected that if this trend continues, Assam's power needs could escalate to 5,500 MW by 2030, necessitating additional generation capacity to lessen reliance on external electricity sources.

“The growth of industries in Assam has led to a daily increase in our power requirements. Previously, electricity was not accessible in every village or area. Now, we are working to ensure power reaches all families across the state, from the Karbi Anglong hills to the char-chapori regions of Dhubri,” Sarma explained.

To meet the rising demand, he emphasized that Assam would require at least two more thermal power projects of similar scale by 2035 to achieve self-sufficiency in power generation.

The Chapar project, designed to have a capacity of 3,200 MW, will consist of four units, each with a capacity of 800 MW. The first unit is anticipated to be operational by 2030, with the second unit following in 2031, and the complete capacity expected to be achieved by December 2032.

“Once this project is completed and operational, Assam will not need to purchase power from outside for at least five years,” Sarma asserted, adding that further planning for additional projects would be necessary as the full capacity comes online.

The Chief Minister also mentioned that the government is investigating pumped-storage projects in the Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao hills, where water resources could be harnessed for power generation.

Beyond ensuring energy security, Sarma connected the project to the potential for industrial growth and job creation in Assam. According to information from the Adani Group, approximately 25,000 workers will be needed during the construction phase, while around 5,000 jobs will be available directly or indirectly once the project is operational.

A blueprint design of the upcoming 3,200 MW thermal power project at Chapor (Photo: DIPR)

Sarma indicated that the project could also encourage the establishment of industries in proximity to the power plant. Approximately 4,000 bighas have been designated for the thermal power project, with BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary allocating an additional 700 bighas for future industries related to the thermal power sector in Chapar.

This project, Sarma noted, will generate four times the power produced by the existing 800-MW Salakati power project in Kokrajhar, marking a significant expansion of Assam's generation capacity.

Adani Power is projected to invest around Rs 48,000 crore in this initiative, having announced the investment in November 2025 after receiving a Letter of Award from the Assam government for the 3,200-MW greenfield ultra-supercritical power plant.

Sarma characterized this project as the largest investment in Assam's industrial sector to date, emphasizing its potential to boost the economic development of Dhubri.