Tripura is preparing for a major rise in electricity demand over the next decade, with consumption projected to reach nearly 800 MW by 2035. The state has launched its Clean Energy Roadmap 2035 to expand renewable energy, strengthen the power network and develop skilled manpower for the transition in the presence of Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath and other dignitaries.
Key Takeaways:
- Electricity demand in Tripura is projected to rise from around 380 MW currently to nearly 800 MW by 2035.
- The clean energy plan covers rooftop solar, battery storage, floating solar, pumped storage and green hydrogen.
- Agartala’s power distribution network is being prepared for a smart-grid transformation and underground infrastructure.
Tripura has formally launched its Clean Energy Roadmap 2035 as the state prepares for a sharp increase in electricity demand over the next decade. TSECL Managing Director Biswajit Basu said the state’s current electricity demand is around 380 MW. He said demand could rise to nearly 520 MW by 2030 and around 800 MW by 2035.
The roadmap seeks to prepare the State for this projected growth while expanding the use of renewable and clean energy.
The initiative was launched in Agartala on Thursday with the Green Skilling Programme ‘Unnayan’ and the Transforming Renewable Energy Acceleration in Tripura programme. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is supporting the initiatives.
Power Demand to Nearly Double by 2035
The projected increase in electricity demand is a key challenge for State energy sector.
The state currently has around 60 MW of solar power generation capacity. At the same time, around 190 MW of electricity is being exported to Bangladesh through the cross-border power connection, Basu said.
Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath stressed the central role of electricity in the development and growth of the State.
He said industries, hospitals and educational institutions all depend on a reliable power supply. He also claimed that Tripura currently has no load-shedding.
According to Nath, temporary power disruptions in some areas should not be confused with load-shedding.
Renewable Energy Expansion at the Core
The Clean Energy Roadmap 2035 includes several renewable energy options.
The plan proposes wider use of rooftop solar power. It also includes Battery Energy Storage Systems and the rehabilitation of hydropower projects.
Tripura will examine the potential of hydrokinetic projects, an 800 MW hydro pumped storage project, floating solar power and green hydrogen.
These measures are aimed at supporting the state’s clean energy transition as electricity demand continues to grow.
Agartala Power Network to Go Underground
The state is also planning a major upgrade of electricity infrastructure in Agartala.
Nath said the entire power infrastructure within the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) area would gradually be shifted underground.
The project is expected to cost more than Rs 1,500 crore.
The minister said the tender process has already been completed and the work order issued. He said work would begin soon after the election process ends.
A Bhumi Pujan ceremony will be held in the presence of Chief Minister Professor Dr Manik Saha before the work begins, Nath said.
Smart Grid to Strengthen Power Distribution
Agartala’s electricity distribution system is also being transformed into a smart grid.
The proposed system includes underground high- and low-voltage cables and GIS substations. It will also have a smart-grid control centre integrated with SCADA and ADMS.
An underground optical-fibre communication system is part of the plan.
The move is expected to modernise the distribution network and strengthen the infrastructure needed to manage future power demand.
Over 1,000 People to Receive Green Skills Training
The clean energy transition will also require a larger pool of trained workers.
Nath said more than 1,000 people are planned to receive training under the green skilling programme.
ITI graduates, Class XII pass youth, self-help group members, diploma engineers and technicians will be covered.
The programme will focus particularly on modern applications of solar power.
Nath said installing solar panels alone would not be enough. The state would also need trained personnel to maintain and service the systems.
Successful participants will undergo assessment and receive certificates through agencies recognised by the Government of India.
ADB Calls Roadmap an Implementable Plan
ADB Principal Energy Specialist James Colastharaj said the Clean Energy Roadmap 2035 was not simply a study or report.
He described it as an implementable plan for renewable energy development, energy security and green employment.
He said ADB began preparing the roadmap in 2023 in close coordination with the Tripura government and TSECL.
The initiative aims to involve youth, women, farmers, entrepreneurs and local communities in the transition to clean energy.
The programme also included recognition for organisations that have made notable contributions to renewable energy under PM-SGMBY and PM-KUSUM.
Senior officials from the Power and Finance departments, Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission, Skill Development Department, ADB, TSECL, TPGCL, TPTL, TREDA and other departments and agencies attended the launch. (With inputs from Jagaran Tripura)