The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (HEP), a 2000 MW hydro power project being developed by NHPC Limited on the Subansiri River along the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, has achieved a key milestone with two of its eight generating units commissioned, while the remaining units are scheduled to be completed in phases by December 2026, according to the Ministry of Power.
The project consists of eight units of 250 MW each, with electricity from the commissioned units already being supplied to the designated beneficiaries. Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate approximately 7,422 million units (MU) of electricity annually, strengthening India’s renewable energy capacity and supporting grid stability by balancing intermittent sources such as solar and wind power, while also providing peaking power support to the national grid.
In addition to power generation, the Subansiri Lower project is expected to provide flood moderation benefits in the Brahmaputra Valley, contributing to improved water management in the region.
The project has received all statutory environment and forest clearances from the concerned authorities. NHPC Limited has also implemented riverbank protection and erosion control measures downstream of the project, while dam safety compliance is being ensured in line with the Dam Safety Act, 2021 under the supervision and guidance of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA).
NHPC has undertaken multiple initiatives for the welfare of local communities affected by the project. During the construction phase, around 7,000 local workers have been provided employment. The company is also implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes in areas including education, healthcare, sanitation, skill development, and rural development.
Livelihood programmes benefiting nearly 5,000 women have also been carried out, alongside infrastructure development works such as roads and bridges to improve connectivity in nearby villages.
