Lower Subansiri Power Generation Clears Path for Middle Subansiri Project

With two units of the Lower Subansiri Hydro Power Project producing a total of 500 MW of electricity and a third unit expected to commence operations soon, NHPC has obtained all necessary government clearances to initiate the Middle Subansiri Hydroelectric Project, projected to generate over 1,600 MW. Preliminary studies for the Upper Subansiri project are also in progress. All clearances, including investment and environmental, have been secured for the Middle Subansiri project, and the construction tendering process is ongoing. The Lower Subansiri project anticipates that all eight units will be operational by March 2027, though officials note challenges due to reduced river flow in the dry season. During this period, operational capacity will be limited to one or two units during the day to conserve water, while full capacity is expected in the monsoon season. Flood management measures, including a flood storage capacity of 15 meters, have been incorporated into the Lower Subansiri project to mitigate downstream flooding concerns, with authorities confident there will be no significant flood-related issues during the rainy season.