Sikkim, a state in India, has abundant hydroelectric power potential, and the government has taken steps to exploit this potential for revenue generation. Here are some key points related to Sikkim’s hydro policy:
1. Hydroelectric Potential:
- Sikkim has significant hydroelectric power potential.
- The state government is actively engaged in harnessing this potential through various projects.
2. Development Approach:
- The Energy & Power Department of Sikkim is involved in developing hydro power projects.
- Projects with capacities below 25 MW are developed directly by the state.
- Projects with capacities of 25 MW and above are developed through Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and in Joint Venture (JV) mode.
- The Hydro Committee, constituted by the state government, plays a crucial role in recommending a roadmap for fast-track development of hydro power potential.
3. Guidelines and Terms:
- The Hydro Committee drafted guidelines and terms & conditions for hydropower development in the state.
- These guidelines facilitate private power developer participation and collaboration with Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs).
4. Project Examples:
- The 99 MW Chujachen Hydroelectric Power Project, developed by M/s Gati Infrastructure Ltd., and the 96 MW Jorethang Loop Hydroelectric Power Project, developed by M/s Dans Energy Pvt Ltd, both operate on a Build Own Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis.
- NHPC operates two projects—60 MW Rangit III and 510 MW Teesta V—on a Build Own and Operate (BOO) basis.
- Teesta Urja Ltd (TUL) is developing the 1200 MW Teesta Stage III Hydro Electric Power Project through a Public Private Partnership, with the state government holding 51% equity.
5. Revenue Generation:
- Sikkim now trades a significant portion of power, generating revenue.
- The surplus power can be exported to other states, contributing to additional revenue2.
6. Recommendation for Export:
- Sikkim should consider having a clear policy to export hydropower to neighboring countries like Bangladesh.
- Pricing should be based on market rates to ensure a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Overall, Sikkim’s hydro policy aims to harness its immense hydro potential for sustainable development and revenue growth.
Certainly! Here’s a list of some notable hydroelectric projects in Sikkim:
1. Chuzachen Hydroelectric Project:
- Located in the Rangpo & Rongli district.
- Basin: Brahmaputra.
- Capacity: Not specified.
- Status: Operational.
2. Rangit-III Hydroelectric Project:
- Located in Sikkim.
- Basin: Brahmaputra (Greater Rangit).
- Capacity: 60 MW.
- Status: Operational.
3. Teesta-V Hydroelectric Project:
- Located in East Sikkim.
- Basin: Brahmaputra (Teesta).
- Capacity: 510 MW.
- Status: Operational.
4. Teesta-VI Hydroelectric Project:
- Under construction.
- Capacity: 500 MW.
- Expected Commissioning: March 2024.
- Developer: National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
- Location: Teesta River, Sikkim.
- Project Details: Run-of-river project providing 12% free power to Sikkim as royalty for the first 15 years, increasing to 15% thereafter.
5. Teesta Stage III Hydro Electric Power Project:
- Being developed by Teesta Urja Ltd (TUL).
- Capacity: 1200 MW.
- Status: Under development.
6. Other Projects:
- Kundan Green Energy operates four projects totaling 35 MW in Sikkim (Lower Lagyap, Meyong Chu, Kalex Khola, and Rabum Chu), with two upcoming projects at Lower Meyong Chu and New Meyong Chu.
Sikkim’s commitment to hydropower development has led to several successful projects, contributing to the state’s energy security and economic growth.
- 60 MW Rangit III, awarded to NHPC on Build Own and Operate (BOO), is already operational.
- 510 MW Teesta V, awarded to NHPC on BOO, is already operational.
- 1200 MW Teesta Stage III Hydro Electric Power Project is being developed by Teesta Urja Ltd (TUL).
- Teesta-V Dam: Output – 510MW, Dam Location – Dikchu, Gangtok district, Sikkim. Powerhouse Location – Balutar, Singtam, Gangtok district, Sikkim.
- Teesta III Dam: Output – 1200 MW Dam Location – Chungthang, Mangan district, Sikkim.
- Teesta Low Dam III: Output – 132MW, Dam & Powerhouse location – Rambi Bazar, Kalimpong district, West Bengal Constructed by – NHPC Limited.
As of today, there are 47 hydropower projects in different stages of development within the Teesta River basin, which spans both Sikkim and West Bengal. Let’s break down the details:
Commissioned Projects:
Nine projects have already been commissioned and are operational.
Projects Under Construction:
Work is ongoing for 15 dams within the basin.
Upcoming Projects:
An additional 28 projects are in the pipeline, awaiting development.