Assam's Power Demand Set to Surge This Summer
Rising Electricity Needs in Assam
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Guwahati, May 17: Assam is witnessing a continuous rise in electricity demand, with expectations that peak demand during the summer months could reach 3,000 MW.
According to official reports, the surge in electricity needs is attributed to the state's increasing development projects over recent years.
Currently, the power demand fluctuates between 2,000 MW during off-peak hours and peaks at 2,850 MW. For the financial year 2025-26, the peak demand is projected to be 2,850 MW, marking a 20% increase from the previous financial year.
This summer, Assam's power demand is anticipated to exceed 3,000 MW. However, the state's current power generation capacity stands at approximately 400 MW, necessitating the purchase of additional electricity from external sources. The Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) has secured long-term power purchase agreements totaling 3,200 MW, ensuring that the state does not face any significant power shortages.
Looking ahead, Assam is poised for a transformation in its power landscape starting in 2030, with multiple generation plants planned for development.
The APDCL has already signed agreements to obtain 1,000 MW of pumped hydro storage power from local plants set to be operational by 2030. Additionally, the state will gradually receive around 3,000 MW of thermal power from new plants being established. Currently, the APDCL has contracts with various power generation companies to meet both its long-term and short-term electricity needs. Key inter-state suppliers include NEEPCO, NTPC, NHPC, PTC, and OTPC, while local generators include APGCL, Azure Power, Jackson Power, and SJVN.
The Assam Power Generation Company Ltd (APGCL) is responsible for generating about 400 MW of power, which is entirely supplied to the APDCL.
Furthermore, four out of eight units of NHPC's Subansiri Lower hydroelectric project are operational, contributing 1,000 MW of electricity, with Assam receiving approximately 125 MW based on the allocation from the Union Ministry of Power.
To address future electricity demands, the state government has launched several expansion initiatives. For instance, the APGCL is working on the 120 MW Lower Kopili Hydroelectric Project, which is expected to be completed later this year.
The APDCL has also secured power allocations from various stations, including the Punatsangchhu Hydropower Station in Bhutan and the Talcher Thermal Plant operated by NTPC.