Tripura plans to generate 185 MW of renewable power using hydrokinetic turbines across major rivers, alongside expanding solar energy projects to meet rising electricity demand, ensure energy self-reliance, and boost economic growth in the Northeast.
Tripura is set to take a decisive step toward energy self-reliance with the planned introduction of Hydrokinetic Turbine Technology, a renewable energy solution designed to generate electricity from flowing rivers without constructing large dams. The initiative aims to produce 185 megawatts (MW) of clean power, significantly strengthening the state’s energy infrastructure while supporting environmental sustainability.
The announcement was made by State Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath during the bhoomi pujan ceremony of a Super Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) building at Banamalipur in Agartala. Emphasizing the urgency of technological adaptation, the minister stated that regions unwilling to embrace innovation risk falling behind in development.
According to the Power Department, ten river sites have already been identified for the hydrokinetic turbine project. These include Chakmaghat, Maharani, Dumboor, Natunbazar, Kalsi, Manu, Kulai, Feni, the Dhalai River, and Sangan in Ampi, Lakhipur. The project is expected to commence next month, marking one of the largest river-based renewable energy initiatives in the Northeast.
Highlighting the state’s rapidly growing energy demand, Minister Nath said Tripura currently requires around 378 MW of peak power, a figure projected to rise sharply to 650 MW by 2031. He noted that the state has made remarkable progress in power supply, currently delivering electricity for 23 hours and 54 minutes daily, despite occasional disruptions.
“The number of electricity consumers has increased from 7.21 lakh in 2018 to 10.57 lakh, reflecting the pace of economic and infrastructural growth in Tripura,” Nath said. He added that uninterrupted power supply remains central to industrial expansion, employment generation, and overall development.
The minister also placed strong emphasis on renewable energy diversification, particularly solar power. He highlighted the potential of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, stating that if five lakh households install 2 kW rooftop solar systems, Tripura could generate 1,000 MW of electricity daily, significantly boosting the state’s GDP and per capita income.
Currently, around 15,000 households in Tripura have already adopted rooftop solar systems, collectively generating 6 MW of clean energy. In addition, solar installations are underway in 2,000 government buildings, which are expected to produce 80 MW of power by next year.
“Solar energy is limitless, while our gas reserves are finite and gradually depleting. A balanced mix of hydrokinetic turbines and solar energy will make Tripura self-sufficient in power generation and ensure long-term economic stability,” Nath stated.
The bhoomi pujan ceremony also marked the launch of construction of a Rs 12.33 crore Super ECBC building, one of only five such energy-efficient structures being built across India. The project aims to promote low-energy consumption and climate-resilient infrastructure.
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The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, senior officials, and representatives from the power and urban development departments.
With ambitious river-based hydro projects and expanding solar initiatives, Tripura is steadily positioning itself as a renewable energy leader in Northeast India, setting an example for sustainable and technology-driven power development.
