J&K winter power generation meets only 18% of demand

Arjun Sharma

Jammu, January 14

The power generation capacity of different hydroelectric power projects in Jammu and Kashmir falls down to only 600 MW against the generation capacity of 3,500 MW due to fall in water levels in rivers.

“During winters, power houses in J&K, under both central and state sectors, generate a maximum of 600 MW against their rated capacity of 3,500 MW due to a fall in water levels in the rivers. However, with the peak demand reaching up to 3,200 MW in winters, it becomes evident that J&K’s power demand cannot be solely met by hydroelectric power plants,” an official said.

600 mw being generated against 3,200 mw

• During winter, power houses in J&K generate a maximum of 600 MW against their rated capacity of 3,500 MW due to a fall in water levels in the rivers, an official said
• With the peak demand reaching up to 3,200 MW in winter, it becomes evident that J&K’s power demand cannot be solely met by hydroelectric power plants

The government also issued a clarification regarding signing of an agreement for sale of power to Rajasthan for a period of 40 years.

In the UT hydropower projects are developed in both state and central sectors. Of the existing installed generation capacity of 3500 MW, 1,140 MW is contributed by UT-owned plants, including projects like 900 MW, Baglihar, 110 MW, Lower Jehlum, and 110 MW, Upper Sindh. The remaining 2,300 MW comes from central sector plants, with prominent ones being Salal, Dul-Hasti, Uri, and Kishanganga.

Out of J&K’s own power houses, a major portion of electricity generation is from the Baghliar Hydro Electric Project (BHEP). Other locally owned power generation plants, including Upper Sindh, Lower Jehlum, Chennani collectively generate around 200-250 MW.

“This totals approximately 1,100-1,140 MW through UT’s own generating stations, which drops to around 200 MW in winters. The remaining power requirement during winters is met through Central Generating Stations (CGS) both within and outside J&K,” an official said.

He further said that of the total installed capacity of 1,140 MW in the UT sector, a major share of around 1,030 MW (88% of total capacity) is utilised in J&K, while the remaining 150 MW is sold outside J&K, honouring agreements executed in 2009, initially through PTC, later bilaterally with Haryana.

In the existing situation, J&K requires more power from thermal generators to meet its base load requirement. Solar generation could provide balancing support to hydro plants to some extent. The Centre has set Renewable Purchase Obligation targets, making it mandatory for every State and UT to procure some quantum of hydro and solar power to meet power demand.

After signing of agreement for sale of power from Ratle project on January 3, Opposition parties had alleged that despite not being able to provide power to the residents and the administration is selling the power to other states.