Subansiri Lower Project Unit-2 Commissioned, Boosting Clean Power

Union Minister of Power, Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal on Monday inaugurated the commercial operation of Unit–2 (250 MW) of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project through virtual mode. The commissioning marks a major milestone in India’s largest hydropower project and reinforces the country’s commitment to clean, sustainable energy, particularly for the North-East region.

Milestone for India’s Largest Hydropower Project

Speaking at the event, Manohar Lal described the commissioning as more than a technical achievement, calling it a result of years of dedication and teamwork. He said the Subansiri project symbolises India’s resolve to expand renewable energy, strengthen the national grid and advance long-term Net Zero goals, while accelerating development in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and the wider North-East.

Project Timeline and Future Commissioning Plan

With Unit-2 now operational, the project is moving towards commissioning three more units of 250 MW each in the near term. The remaining four units are scheduled for phased commissioning during 2026–27. Once fully commissioned, the Subansiri Lower Project will generate 7,422 million units of renewable electricity annually, significantly enhancing India’s green energy capacity and grid resilience.

Engineering Features and Flood Moderation Role

Designed as a run-of-the-river scheme with small pondage, the project features the largest dam in North-East India, a 116-metre-high concrete gravity dam. As the first cascaded dam on the Subansiri River, it provides flood moderation with a flood cushion of 442 million cubic metres. Around one-third of its gross reservoir storage of 1,365 million cubic metres remains empty during floods, helping absorb excess water and protect downstream communities.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is India’s largest hydropower project at 2,000 MW.
• The project is a run-of-the-river scheme with eight units of 250 MW each.
• It features the largest dam in North-East India.
• The project provides flood moderation in the Subansiri River basin.

Socio-Economic Impact and NHPC’s Role

NHPC Chairman and Managing Director Bhupender Gupta said the project will provide reliable renewable energy and support sustainable development in the region. During construction, around 7,000 local people were engaged daily, generating large-scale employment. The project will supply power to 16 beneficiary states, provide free power to Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, and allocate 1,000 MW to the North-East. NHPC has also invested heavily in riverbank protection, livelihood programmes and CSR initiatives, reinforcing its role as a 100% green energy company supporting India’s clean energy transition.