Guwahati, April 11: Assam has raised concerns over being allocated excess power from the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, warning that the move could lead to higher electricity costs for consumers in the state.
At the latest meeting of the North Eastern Regional Power Committee (NERPC), officials of Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) stated that the utility does not require additional power from the project’s unallocated share, as it has already secured adequate supply through long-term power purchase agreements.
Despite this, Assam has been allocated 33.1 MW—around a 6.62% share—from Subansiri’s Units II and III under the unallocated quota, over and above its firm and free power entitlement.
APDCL made it clear that it had not sought any additional power from the project and warned that such allocation would only increase power purchase costs, a burden that would ultimately be passed on to consumers.
“Excess hydro allocation from Subansiri will result in increased power purchase costs, which will have to be borne by end consumers,” officials noted during the deliberations.
The issue was discussed at the NERPC forum, where it was acknowledged that both Assam and Meghalaya do not require additional power from the unallocated pool. However, allocations continue under the existing centralised mechanism.
NERPC has now advised Assam to formally approach the Ministry of Power and the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) to relinquish its share. The committee has also directed Assam and Meghalaya to prepare a comprehensive, data-driven report detailing the financial and operational burden caused by the allocation.
Despite the concerns, the committee clarified that the status quo will continue until the Centre issues revised directions, meaning Assam will continue to receive the additional power for now.
The development highlights growing friction between centralised power allocation policies and state-level demand planning, with Assam pushing for a more need-based approach to avoid unnecessary financial strain on its power sector and consumers.