Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 10, NHPC Limited initiated the wet commissioning phase for Unit-2 of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower hydroelectric project on November 6, 2025. The 250 MW unit successfully completed its initial mechanical operation, signaling the commencement of testing for the facility's second power generator.

Previously, Unit-1, also rated at 250 MW, advanced into wet commissioning during late October 2025, initiating the operational evaluation for the inaugural component of India's most substantial hydropower installation.

The Unit-2 milestone event featured virtual participation from NHPC Chairperson and Managing Director Bhupender Gupta, connected from the corporate headquarters in Faridabad, alongside functional and independent directors. At the project location, key personnel included Rajendra Prasad, Executive Director and Subansiri project head, as well as I.P. Ranjan, Executive Director for Operations and Maintenance.

Gupta expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Power, the administrations of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, former NHPC executives, on-site personnel, and collaborating organizations for their roles in advancing the initiative. He noted that the advancements at Subansiri demonstrate the organization's engineering proficiency and encouraged the workforce to uphold progress as subsequent units approach activation.

With Unit-2 now in wet commissioning, the integration of the first two generators—totaling 500 MW—has started. Plans outline the addition of two more 250 MW units in sequence. Upon full realization of all eight units, the Subansiri Lower project will establish itself as India's premier hydroelectric endeavor.

Rajendra Prasad recognized the input from headquarters divisions and associated contractors, such as BGS-SGS-SOMA, TREL, Patel Engineering Ltd., and GE Vernova. He motivated all involved to preserve their dedication as the development progresses to operational maturity.

The Subansiri Lower facility, positioned on the Subansiri River along the Arunachal Pradesh-Assam boundary, represents a run-of-the-river design harnessing natural water flow for sustainable electricity generation. Construction, which began in 2005 following central approval in 2003, has navigated various phases to reach this critical juncture.

Wet commissioning involves systematic assessments of turbine functionality and system integration without full power output, ensuring reliability before grid connection. This process for Unit-2 builds directly on Unit-1's groundwork, accelerating the timeline for incremental capacity additions.

NHPC's strategy emphasizes localized execution, with the project site serving as a hub for skilled labor and equipment deployment. The facility's eventual 2,000 MW output will enhance national renewable resources, supporting grid stability and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.

Collaborative efforts among stakeholders have been instrumental, from geological surveys to infrastructure erection. The involvement of specialized firms ensures adherence to technical specifications and environmental protocols.

As synchronization advances, monitoring systems will validate performance metrics, paving the way for commercial operations. The project's scale positions it to deliver substantial energy volumes, benefiting regional development and broader infrastructure needs.

This sequence of activations highlights NHPC's capacity for large-scale hydropower delivery. With four units targeted for integration within the year, the initiative contributes to India's renewable energy expansion goals.

In essence, the November 6 announcement affirms steady momentum, with leadership's guidance fostering a collaborative path to completion. The Subansiri Lower stands poised to exemplify efficient, eco-friendly power production.