India Proposes Central Policy for Small Hydropower Projects to Add 1.5 GW Capacity
India is set to introduce a central policy aimed at reviving small hydropower projects, with a goal of adding 1.5 GW of capacity and doubling the total installed hydropower capacity to 10 GW over the next decade. The proposal, which has received approval from the Expenditure Finance Committee, includes Rs 2,500 crore in viability gap funding to cover a portion of project costs, particularly in hilly, northeastern, and border regions, and is pending Cabinet approval for the upcoming budget cycle.

India plans to introduce a central policy to revive small hydropower (SHP) projects, targeting a capacity addition of 1.5 GW and doubling installed hydropower capacity to 10 GW in the next decade. The proposal has been cleared by the Expenditure Finance Committee and awaits Cabinet approval for the next budget cycle.
Revival involves Rs 2,500 crore in viability gap funding, covering 25-30% of project costs, with each megawatt estimated to cost Rs 10-12 crore. Enhanced support will focus on projects in hilly, northeastern, and border areas.




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