Has Mizoram frozen power tariffs for five years and ramped up renewable energy initiatives?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Aizawl, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lalduhoma, declared on Saturday that the state administration has opted to maintain electricity tariffs without any hikes for the next five years, emphasizing its dedication to providing affordable energy for all citizens.
During the inauguration of the 10 MW Thenzawl Solar Power Plant, he highlighted that this decision was made with the public's best interest in mind, particularly aimed at assisting economically disadvantaged groups and small business owners.
This initiative is expected to ease the financial burden on households, bolster sustainable economic practices, and advance the use of renewable energy throughout the region.
The Thenzawl Solar Power Project, which has a generation capacity of 10 MW, was built at a cost of Rs 74.82 crore with assistance from NABARD.
Additionally, Lalduhoma revealed that construction of a 5 MW solar park in Sumsuih, Aizawl district, is already underway and is anticipated to be finished soon.
The state has also put forth plans for several other solar parks, including locations at Keifang (10 MW), Tumtuitlang in Serchhip (10 MW), Bawkmual-Hmunhmeltha (10 MWp), Denlung Ram in Hnahthial (10 MWp), Tlabung Tlang in Lallen (6 MWp), and Dawhzau Zau in Lamzawl (20 MWp).
Moreover, the Chief Minister announced that the foundation for the 24 MW Tuirini Hydel Project, estimated to cost Rs 676 crore, will be laid soon.
Planning for the 132 MW Tuivai Hydel Electric Project is also advancing, with expectations that upon completion, Mizoram will achieve significant energy self-sufficiency.
Lalduhoma indicated that seven older hydel power plants are being considered for outsourcing due to high maintenance expenses, with various companies already showing interest.
He also highlighted governance improvements, noting that online electricity bill payments have been enabled across Mizoram since August, and the state has been consistently paying off outstanding power dues, making it eligible for rebates.
From December 2023 to December 2025, rebates totaling Rs 6.57 crore have been obtained. He assured that Mizoram’s financial status is progressively improving, with visible results taking time, yet the state's fiscal health is strengthening.
The Reserve Bank of India recently recognized Mizoram as one of the smaller states with a relatively robust financial standing.
During the event, Power Minister F. Rodingliana stated that Mizoram's annual power demand is rising by approximately 7.6 percent, with peak demand reaching 160 MW.
He mentioned that the government is adopting various strategies to meet the increasing demand, including pump storage power linked to the Vankal Solar Plant, accelerating the 132 MW Tuivai project, and progressing with the 24 MW Tuirini Hydel Electric Project.
The Power Minister stressed that outsourcing the seven hydel power plants would yield greater benefits for the state and encouraged the public to recognize the long-term advantages of this initiative.