Mizoram Plans 132-MW Hydropower Plant to Meet Rising Energy Needs

The Mizoram administration aims to establish a 132-megawatt hydropower project along the Tuivai river in the Saitual district, bordering Manipur, to address growing energy needs. Officials disclosed the plan on Wednesday.

Lalduhoma led an essential meeting to accelerate the Tuivai Hydroelectric Project, budgeted at Rs 2,289.50 crore with a five-year completion goal. The meeting included Power Minister F Rodingliana and other senior officials. They confirmed the completion of the Detailed Project Report, with preparations underway for the tendering phase.

The state contemplates a Public-Private Partnership model for the project's execution. According to the 20th Electric Power Survey, Mizoram's peak power demand is presently at 182 megawatts, anticipated to increase to approximately 213 megawatts by 2030. Despite having a 50.20 megawatt installed generation capacity, local production falls short at merely 10%, prompting the need to enhance domestic electricity production.

Initially proposed in 1992 for a 210 megawatt capacity by the Central Water Commission, the Tuivai project was adjusted after parts of the proposed dam extended into Manipur. A revised DPR now sees a reduced output of 132 megawatts. The state government incurs around Rs 649.54 crore annually to purchase electricity, intensifying the pursuit to expand local generation.

Alongside Tuivai, progress on the Tuirini Hydroelectric Project and the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme were discussed. The meeting also set the agenda for talks with Union Power Minister Manohar Lal during his impending visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)