Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on February 9, 2019, laid the foundation stone for seven EHV substations and 24 low-tension substations in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh.
This project is a major step towards meeting the national objectives of affordable 24×7 power to all, especially in the remote locations of Arunachal Pradesh and shall also help in bringing the per capita power consumption of the state closer to national average. The project is being implemented by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd.
Project details
The scheme comprises construction of 24 new 132/33kV EHV substations with 529 MVA transformation capacity and 70 new 33/11kV distribution substations with 465 MVA transformation capacity apart from laying of 1917 km of 132 kV transmission lines and 1923 km of 33kV lines.
Contracts for construction of 18 substations of 132/33kV, 1,716 km of 132kV transmission lines and 46 substations of 33/11kV with associated 33kV lines of 1202 km have been awarded. The construction activities in 13 substations of 132/33kV, 21 substations of 33/11kV and associated lines under the awarded contracts have already been commenced.
The present load in Arunachal Pradesh is about 138 mw that is projected to grow to 482 mw by 2026-27, as per the 19th Electric Power Survey (EPS) Report.
The project will also augment and improve the present distribution system through 33kV and 11kV lines to villages and towns including remote and border areas ensuring strong and reliable transmission & distribution system in the state in coming years.
The Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening of Transmission & Distribution Systems in Arunachal Pradesh was sanctioned on October 10, 2014 under Central Sector Plan Scheme of the Union Ministry of Power at an estimated cost of Rs.3,199.45 crore (at April, 2013 price level), to be funded by Government of India.
Objective
This project will give impetus to integration of upcoming hydropower plants in Arunachal Pradesh with the National Grid and will facilitate lying of optical fiber to help extend communication facility to the small towns/villages. It shall boost local economy of the entire state with infusion of about Rs.6,501 crore and also by creating opportunities for long-term support of the new infrastructure.
The project will give impetus to the inclusive growth by enhancing the consumers’ access to reliable and affordable grid connected power supply. It will lead to reduction in operation of diesel-fired generating sets in Arunachal Pradesh, thus bringing socio-economic and environmental benefits to the people of Arunachal Pradesh. The project will also facilitate in development of small scale/cottage industries/tourism in the region and boost economic growth by enabling supply of quality power.
Power Scenario
The present load in Arunachal Pradesh is about 138 mw that is projected to grow to 482 mw by 2026-27, as per the 19th Electric Power Survey (EPS) Report.
The present per capita power consumption of state is 233 kwh against national average of 1075 kwh. The existing power T&D system needed a major reconstruction and integration with National Grid to meet the present and future load requirement as well as to fuel faster economic growth, a government release observed.
Featured photograph shows an extra-high voltage (EHV) substation, for representation purpose only. Photograph sourced from Bajaj Electricals Ltd.
