India Powers Up: First Unit of Nation's Largest 2,000 MW Subansiri Hydro Project Commissioned

• NHPC has commissioned Unit #2 of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, marking the first operational unit of India's largest hydropower project.
• The project, designed as a run-of-the-river scheme, features an 116-meter-high concrete gravity dam, the largest in North-East India, providing flood moderation and generating 7,422 million units annually.
• Remaining units, including three 250 MW units, are slated for commissioning shortly, with the final four units expected by FY 2026–27, as stated by the Power Ministry.
• The Subansiri project incorporates advanced engineering, including India’s heaviest hydro generator rotors, largest stators, and the first-ever use of Rotec’s Tower Belt for dam concreting.
• Beyond electricity for 16 states, it offers free power to Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, allocates 1,000 MW to the North-East, and is expected to boost regional tourism, jobs, and river navigation.

Why It Matters: India's largest Subansiri hydro project begins operations, boosting renewable energy and regional development.