Himachal CM Sukhu Cancels Delayed Hydro Projects, Accelerates Solar and Power Infra Push

In a decisive move to revive Himachal Pradesh’s energy sector, Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has ordered the Energy Department to issue cancellation notices to hydro power developers whose projects have remained stalled for years.

Chairing a high-level meeting of the Power Department on Saturday, the Chief Minister said prolonged delays in executing hydro projects are inflicting heavy losses on the state’s exchequer.

CM Sukhu stated that hydropower is the backbone of Himachal’s economy. The state cannot allow non-serious players to hold public resources hostage. It is determined to ensure these projects translate into real benefits for our people,

The state government has decided to take back three key hydro projects previously allotted to SJVN Ltd, namely the 382 MW Sunni, 210 MW Luhri Stage-I, and 66 MW Dhaulasidh projects. CM Sukhu also clarified that upcoming projects like the Kishau and Renuka dams will not move forward unless neighboring states provide firm commitments regarding long-pending arrears from the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

Officials informed the Chief Minister that BBMB has identified pump storage potential of 4,403 MW on Bhakra Dam and 8,700 MW on Kol Dam. CM Sukhu directed the department to take the lead on these projects and ensure Himachal reaps maximum benefits.

Focussing on renewable energy, CM Sukhu instructed HPSEBL to complete the Kaza solar power project by August 2025 and fast-track a 1 MW solar project with battery backup at Dhanwas in the remote Pangi Valley. The latter is slated for completion by December 2025 and will ensure uninterrupted power supply to 19 snow-bound gram panchayats.

Reviewing progress under the Green Panchayat Scheme, he urged officials to expedite implementation. He also called for timely completion of the under-construction 450 MW Shongtong Hydropower Project.

To enhance transmission capacity, it was decided that HPSEBL will set up five 66 KV substations, while HPPTCL will establish 10 substations of 132 KV and 220 KV capacities as per the directions of the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Regulatory Commission.

The meeting was attended by Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister Ram Subhag Singh, Advisor Infrastructure Anil Kapil, OSD to the Chief Minister Gopal Sharma, HPSEBL Chairman Sanjay Gupta, Energy Director Rakesh Prajapati, HP Power Corporation MD Abid Husain Sadiq, and HPPTCL MD Rajiv Sood, among other senior officials.