New Delhi: State-owned power producer NHPC will begin the commercial operation of the second unit of the 2,000 megawatt (MW) Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project on Tuesday, marking another key milestone in India’s largest hydroelectric venture. The project is being developed at an estimated cost of around ₹27,000 crore.
Second Unit of 250 MW Goes Live
In an exchange filing, NHPC announced that it has declared the commercial operation of Unit 2, with a capacity of 250 MW, effective from 00:00 hours on December 23, 2025. With this, power generation from the ambitious project will further strengthen the country’s renewable energy capacity.
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India’s Largest Hydroelectric Project
The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is being constructed by NHPC under the Ministry of Power. Located near North Lakhimpur, along the border of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, the project has a total planned capacity of 2,000 MW, comprising eight units of 250 MW each.
This project is the largest hydroelectric project ever undertaken in India. It is designed as a run-of-river scheme with water storage on the Subansiri River, aimed at generating clean and sustainable energy while supporting grid stability.
Boost to Clean Energy and Regional Development
Once fully commissioned, the Subansiri Lower project is expected to play a significant role in meeting growing power demand, particularly in the northeastern region. It is also expected to contribute to economic development through improved infrastructure, employment opportunities, and enhanced power availability.
About NHPC
NHPC Limited is a premier hydropower company in India and a Navratna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power. The company is primarily engaged in the development, operation, and maintenance of hydroelectric power projects, and has also diversified into solar and wind energy, supporting India’s transition toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy mix.
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