Himachal Pradesh Sets 2026 Deadline for Shongtong-Karcham Hydro Project: A Boost for Green Power

In a major step towards expanding its renewable energy portfolio, the Himachal Pradesh government has finalized a new commissioning deadline of November 2026 for the long-delayed 450 MW Shongtong-Karcham hydropower project. The project, located in the tribal Kinnaur district, is expected to significantly boost the state’s clean energy output.

Originally scheduled for completion in 2020, the project faced multiple delays due to land acquisition challenges, environmental clearances, and COVID-19-induced disruptions. With a renewed focus on accelerating clean energy development, the state cabinet approved the revised timeline earlier this month.

The hydro project is part of Himachal’s broader vision to become a net energy exporter. The state already has a renewable energy share of over 40% and aims to raise this to 60% by 2030. The Shongtong-Karcham facility will use a run-of-the-river design, minimizing ecological disruption and eliminating the need for large reservoirs.

Government Plans Beyond Hydro: The state is also investing in:

• 250 MW of new solar parks in districts like Lahaul-Spiti and Sirmaur.
• Pilot hydrogen energy projects in partnership with central PSUs.
• Pumped storage projects to support grid balancing.

Why It Matters:

• Strengthens India’s renewable backbone in the Himalayas.
• Provides clean power to northern states.
• Offers employment and sustainable growth in remote regions.

What’s Next: The central government is expected to extend financial assistance under the Green Energy Corridor program to support the evacuation of hydroelectric power from remote sites like Kinnaur to national grids.