SRINAGAR: Over the past four years, the Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department has become the second highest revenue contributor to the government.
During this period, the department recorded a 67 percent increase in revenue generation.
According to official figures, since the financial year 2022, the Power Development Department has emerged as the second highest contributor among major revenue-generating departments, with a 67 percent rise in power revenue.
Official documents further reveal that by November 2024, a transmission and distribution capacity of 32,762.49 MVA had been established, along with an electric line length of 1,66,633.44 circuit kilometres (Ckm). Transmission and distribution capacity has increased by more than 35 percent over the past five years.
“From 2020–21 to 2023–24, Jammu and Kashmir recorded a steady rise in per capita electricity consumption, from 1,322 kWh to 1,532 kWh,” the documents state.
They further note that this reflects a growing demand for power, alongside a population increase from 13.41 million to 13.70 million. Power units purchased or consumed rose from 17,721.76 million to 20,985.70 million units over the same period.
The documents also highlight progress in the renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and small hydro power projects.
“JaKEDA has allocated 35 Mini Hydel Projects (MHPs) with a combined capacity of 103.05 MW under the Independent Power Producer (IPP) mode. Commissioned projects include the 5 MW SHP Bultikulan and 3.75 MW SHP Khari,” they state.
The documents add that infrastructure development remains a focus area, with progress in power generation, connectivity, and urban planning. “The doubling of hydel power generation capacity and ongoing road and rail projects are expected to further improve the region’s infrastructure and connectivity.”
“Rooftop solar energy systems have been installed at 4,635 government buildings and 4,000 households, with a total capacity of 19.35 MW. In addition, Rooftop Solar Power Plants with a capacity of 8.5 MW have been installed for 300 beneficiaries,” the report concludes. -(KNO)
