Meghalaya has transitioned from being a power-deficient to a power-surplus state, Power Minister AT Mondal announced on Thursday. He, however, said the status depends on favourable weather and uninterrupted functioning of the hydroelectric units.
“All the power generating units of the state are working optimally now,” Mondal said, noting that the total generation stands at 360.75 megawatts, supplemented by Meghalaya’s share from central utilities according to power purchase agreements. “Our power surplus status will continue as long as all our units are in running condition,” he said.
For instance, the state loses 42 megawatts if one unit of the Leshka power project is down. Even a minor mechanical fault can affect generation, he explained. Mondal said the government is planning long-term to ensure sustainability. “We want sufficient power consistently by 2030-35,” he added. Meghalaya currently draws 367.5 megawatts of electricity, including its share from central utilities like NEEPCO and NTPC. The state’s requirement is about 600 million units.