Will NHPC Pioneer Northeast’s First 800 MW Pumped Storage Project in Tripura?
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Synopsis
Tripura is set to launch the first 800 MW Pumped Storage Project in the northeast, promising enhanced power generation and energy security for the region. This significant initiative by NHPC aims to bolster clean energy efforts and alleviate financial burdens on consumers, marking a pivotal step towards sustainable development.
Key Takeaways
- Tripura is set to launch its first 800 MW Pumped Storage Project.
- The project will significantly enhance power generation in the region.
- NHPC will spearhead the establishment of this facility.
- Tripura is committed to green energy initiatives to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
- Opposition to gas price increases showcases a focus on consumer welfare.
Guwahati/Agartala, July 18 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance electricity generation in Tripura, the state will soon see the launch of an 800 MW Pumped Storage Project (PSP), marking the first of its kind in the entire northeast region, announced the Tripura Power Minister on Friday.
During the 29th North Eastern Region Power Committee meeting in Guwahati, Tripura's Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath stated that the National Hydro Power Corporation of India (NHPC), a government-run entity, will establish this pumped storage facility in the Dhalai district of Tripura.
He further mentioned that this initiative aligns with the guidelines set forth by the Union Ministry of Power.
In a preceding Technical Committee meeting, a suggestion was tabled to raise the gas prices for the OTPC Palatana power project located in southern Tripura. “If approved, this would impose a significant financial burden on consumers not just in Tripura, but across the entire northeastern region, as many states rely on electricity from this project,” the Minister expressed.
However, Minister Nath firmly opposed the proposal during Friday's meeting, labeling it as not only unreasonable but also detrimental to public welfare. He emphasized that the additional costs would be unacceptable for the citizens.
“Thanks to my vigorous opposition, the North Eastern Power Committee had to dismiss the proposal, thereby relieving Tripura and all northeastern states from an enormous financial obligation,”
he added.
Minister Nath expressed that the central government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is dedicated to the principles of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”, aiming to create an Atmanirbhar Bharat, and highlighted the need for collective effort to realize this vision.
He acknowledged the country's advancements in the green hydrogen sector, mentioning the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which aims to position India as a global leader in hydrogen production and export. The Power Minister disclosed that Tripura is actively engaged in promoting clean and green energy projects to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.
“To date, approximately 45,000 solar street lights, 4,900 solar pumps, 215 solar micro-grids, 3 MW of solar rooftops, and 2 MW of off-grid solar power have been installed, generating a total of 26 MW of solar energy,”
he stated.
Additionally, he pointed out that the integration of battery energy storage systems with renewable energy will ensure power availability during peak demand by utilizing excess renewable energy produced during the day and off-peak hours. The installation of storage batteries in Tripura is also being considered to store solar energy for peak load applications.
“The Central Government has launched several transformative initiatives in the power sector, revolutionizing it with an emphasis on delivering affordable electricity to everyone. The northeast region is not only rich in natural resources but also in social capital,”
he noted.
The meeting included participants such as Udayan Sinha, Additional Secretary of the Tripura Power Department, Biswajit Basu, Managing Director of the Tripura State Electricity Corporation (TSECL), and Ranjan Debbarman, General Manager of Power Transport Limited.
Point of View
It's evident that the establishment of the 800 MW Pumped Storage Project in Tripura is a significant step towards enhancing energy security in the northeast. The proactive stance of the Tripura government in opposing potentially harmful proposals reflects a commitment to public welfare and sustainable development. This project could pave the way for future investments and advancements in renewable energy across the region.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pumped Storage Project in Tripura?
The Pumped Storage Project (PSP) in Tripura is a significant energy initiative aimed at generating 800 MW of electricity, marking the first of its kind in the northeastern region.
Who is responsible for the establishment of the project?
The National Hydro Power Corporation of India (NHPC), a government-run entity, is responsible for the establishment of the Pumped Storage Project in Tripura.
How will this project impact electricity consumers?
The project is expected to enhance power generation and stabilize electricity supply, ultimately benefiting consumers in Tripura and the northeastern region.
What initiatives is Tripura taking towards clean energy?
Tripura is actively working on various clean energy projects including solar energy initiatives, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions.
What was the outcome of the recent proposal to raise gas prices for the OTPC Palatana project?
The proposal to raise gas prices was strongly opposed by Tripura's Power Minister and was ultimately rejected by the North Eastern Power Committee.
