SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Energy Development Agency (JAKEDA) has invited bids for 35 small hydropower projects across 15 districts of the Union Territory. The projects, with a combined estimated capacity of 60.05 megawatts (MW), align with the JK Renewable Energy Policy 2023, which aims to encourage sustainable energy development and private sector participation.
Backed by the Department of Science and Technology, these projects will be implemented under two models—the Swiss Challenge Mode and the Independent Power Producer (IPP) Mode—designed to ensure innovation, competition, and increased private investment in the sector.
Under the Swiss Challenge Mode, 17 projects with a cumulative capacity of 30.85 MW are to be developed in districts including Pulwama (1.5 MW), Kishtwar (multiple projects of 1–2 MW), Ganderbal (0.70 MW), Doda (2 MW and an additional 2 MW), Anantnag (2 MW), and Kulgam (2 MW).
The remaining 18 projects, totalling 29.20 MW, will be taken up under the IPP Mode. These include projects in Anantnag (1.1 MW and 1.5 MW), Kupwara (1.6 MW), Baramulla (2 MW), Budgam (2 MW), Bandipora (multiple projects), Kishtwar (1.5 MW and 2 MW), Ramban (1.3 MW and 2 MW), Reasi (1.5 MW), Poonch (2 MW and 1.4 MW), and Ganderbal (1.5 MW).
Each project will follow the Build, Own, Operate, and Transfer (BOOT) model with a 40-year concession period, after which the projects will be handed over to the government. Bidding is being carried out transparently through the online portal of the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC) to ensure wider participation from eligible developers.
A senior JAKEDA official described the initiative as a crucial step toward generating clean energy and empowering local communities. He said the agency is working to utilise the region’s natural resources to meet energy demands and support economic development, particularly in remote areas.
In addition to power generation, the projects are expected to create local jobs, enhance infrastructure, and improve electricity access in underserved regions. The initiative is also aligned with India’s national climate goals, including the target of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030.
Jammu and Kashmir has an estimated small hydropower potential of over 2,000 MW. The latest initiative by JAKEDA is seen as a key effort in unlocking this potential and moving the region toward a cleaner, more resilient, and energy-secure future. (KNO)
