CEA proposes Rs 6.4 lakh crore transmission plan for 76 GW Brahmaputra hydropower
Author: PPD Team Date: October 27, 2025
The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has proposed a Rs 6.42-lakh-crore plan to build a transmission network to evacuate over 76 gigawatts (GW) of hydropower from Brahmaputra Basin projects by 2047. The plan aims to meet rising electricity demand and reduce dependence on coal.
The initiative covers 208 large hydro projects across 12 sub-basins in northeastern India, with 64.9 GW of potential capacity and an additional 11.1 GW from pumped-storage plants. Phase I, up to 2035, is estimated at Rs 1.91 lakh crore, while Phase II, beyond 2035, will cost Rs 4.52 lakh crore.
The infrastructure will include over 31,000 circuit kilometres (ckm) of transmission lines, 68 gigavolt-amperes (GVA) of transformation capacity, and 42 GW of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) capacity. Projects are mainly allocated to central public sector utilities such as NHPC, NEEPCO, and SJVN.
The Brahmaputra, originating in Tibet and flowing through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and other northeastern states, accounts for over 80 percent of India’s untapped hydro potential, with Arunachal Pradesh alone holding 52.2 GW. The project also addresses strategic concerns over China’s mega-dam on the river, safeguarding downstream flow and asserting India’s water rights.
Master plan overview
The plan aims to evacuate the full 65 GW of hydro capacity through a reliable transmission system. It is structured in two phases: by 2035, the plan targets 10,000 ckm of transmission lines, 30 GVA transformation capacity, and 12 GW of HVDC capacity; beyond 2035, an additional 21,000 ckm, 38 GVA, and 30 GW of HVDC are planned.
Hydroelectric sub-basin capacities:
Pumped-storage plants contribute an additional 11.1 GW, mainly in Mizoram and Assam.
Transmission system design
Transmission planning considers both inter-state (ISTS) and intra-state (Intra-STS) needs. HVDC corridors are prioritized for long-distance bulk transmission. Pooling stations use high-capacity transformers and Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) for modular scalability and grid stability. Lines are designed for ambient temperatures up to 40°C with 10% overload margin. FACTS devices and digital controls ensure voltage and frequency stability.
Cost and infrastructure
Challenges and implementation
Transmission through the hilly, forested terrain of northeastern India involves environmental and social challenges. Right-of-way acquisition and environmental clearances require careful planning, community engagement, and mitigation measures such as wildlife-friendly corridors and post-construction restoration.
The plan follows the Electricity Act 2003, with ISTS and Intra-STS coordination led by the Central Transmission Utility and State Transmission Utilities. Transmission development will align with generation growth and market demand, with system studies guiding updates.
Conclusion
If fully implemented, the Brahmaputra Basin evacuation plan will secure over 76 GW of clean energy, build over 31,000 ckm of transmission lines, and strengthen India’s grid with advanced, resilient technologies. The project is key to India’s renewable energy ambitions, energy security, and strategic water management in the northeast.
The featured photograph (Source: NEEPCO) is for representation only.