Under the direction of Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Mizoram Power and Electricity Minister F Rodingliana attended the Conference of Power Ministers and Secretaries in New Delhi. The conference’s main goal was to discuss the prospects and problems facing India’s power industry. It was hosted at Yashobhoomi in Dwarka.
State seeks Support in Hydropower Development
Minister Rodingliana focused on the potential of Mizoram’s hydroelectric sector, its current energy challenges, and the need for central support to achieve its energy goals. He also pointed out the significant gap between the state’s energy potential and actual production.
Mizoram’s Untapped Hydropower Potential
The state’s inability to make the most of the resources at its disposal was brought to light by the Minister of Power and Electricity. According to him, Mizoram can create up to 3,500 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric electricity, but at the moment, the state only produces 38.5 MW. The state finds it difficult to fully utilize its hydropower potential due to a lack of funding and poor infrastructure.
Funding Constraints Hinder Large-Scale Hydropower Projects
Mizoram’s vast water resources, which might be used to increase energy output, have not yet been properly harnessed. Despite possessing a wealth of water sources that can be used to generate electricity, the state has trouble increasing energy output due to financial limitations in large-scale hydropower development.
Turial Hydel Project Managed by External Corporation
Currently Mizoram’s largest project, the Tuirial Hydel Project, is run by the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) instead of the state government. The state’s control and project benefits are restricted under this structure.
Mizoram Faces High Power Costs Due to Limited Share in Tuirial Project
Mizoram’s budget is affected by the fact that Mizoram gets only 12% of the power produced by Tuirial Hydel Project. The remaining power is purchased at high cost, significantly impacting the state’s finances.
