JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir is making significant strides in the energy sector, with efforts underway to double its hydropower generation capacity and enhance transmission and distribution infrastructure. The Economic Survey 2025, tabled in the legislative assembly, highlights the region’s untapped hydroelectric potential, increasing electricity consumption, and the growing role of renewable energy sources.
The Union Territory has an estimated hydropower potential of 18,000 MW, of which 14,867 MW has been identified. However, only 3,540.15 MW, or 23.81 per cent of the identified potential, has been harnessed so far. This includes 1,197.4 MW generated in the state sector, 2,250 MW in the central sector, and 92.75 MW through Independent Power Producers (IPPs). The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) currently manages six projects with a total installed capacity of 2,250 MW, while the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC) oversees 13 projects generating 1,197.40 MW. Additionally, 12 projects under Independent Power Producers, including the Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JaKEDA), contribute 92.75 MW. In total, there are 31 hydropower projects operating in the region.
To address its power deficit and unlock its hydropower potential, Jammu and Kashmir is developing four major projects—Pakal Dul (1,000 MW), Rattle-II HEP (850 MW), Kiru (624 MW), and Kwar (540 MW)—which will add 3,014 MW to the grid. This initiative is expected to nearly double the region’s current hydropower generation capacity, enabling it to meet local demand more efficiently and even export surplus electricity for additional revenue.
Alongside generation, the government has prioritised strengthening transmission and distribution infrastructure. As of November 2024, transmission and distribution capacity has reached 32,762.49 MVA, supported by an electric line network spanning 1,66,633.44 circuit kilometres. This marks an increase of over 35 per cent in transmission and distribution capacity over the past five years. The administration is committed to providing a reliable and safe 24×7 power supply at affordable rates, ensuring uninterrupted electricity access across Jammu and Kashmir.
Reflecting increased energy consumption, per capita electricity usage has grown from 1,322 KWHr in 2020-21 to 1,532 KWHr in 2023-24. This rise corresponds with a population increase from 13.41 million to 13.70 million and an increase in electricity consumption from 17,721.76 million units to 20,985.70 million units over the same period. Currently, the region caters to approximately 23.65 lakh electricity consumers across various categories.
To improve billing efficiency and reduce power losses, the administration has installed 6.40 lakh smart meters, with plans to deploy an additional 14.07 lakh in the coming years. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in power consumption and ensure accurate metering for both residential and commercial consumers.
The renewable energy sector is also witnessing significant progress, with a particular focus on solar and small hydro projects. The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JaKEDA) has allocated 35 Mini Hydel Projects (MHPs) with a combined capacity of 103.05 MW under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) mode. Several projects have already been commissioned, including the 5 MW Bultikulan Small Hydropower Project and the 3.75 MW Khari Small Hydropower Project.
The Economic Survey underscores Jammu and Kashmir’s ambitious energy roadmap, which balances hydropower expansion with renewable energy initiatives. These developments are set to boost economic growth, enhance energy security, and position the region as a key player in India’s power sector.
