Guwahati: Assam’s electricity demand is expected to rise sharply over the next decade as the state’s infrastructure and industrial base expand, prompting experts to advocate for the adoption of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission systems to strengthen power supply.
Unlike conventional alternating current networks, HVDC can transmit large volumes of electricity over long distances with lower losses. For a geographically distant and grid-constrained region like Assam, this efficiency is crucial.
The state’s peak power requirement is projected to nearly triple from 2,800 MW in FY 2024–25 to 6,153 MW by FY 2032–33, illustrating the need for robust transmission planning.
Assam’s Gross State Domestic Product has been growing at an annual rate of 8 to 9 percent, driven by infrastructure initiatives such as Asom Mala and the Act East Policy, along with investments in petroleum, tea, tourism, and logistics.
Rising demand from commercial, high-tension industrial, and bulk supply segments is expected to accelerate power consumption further.
Industry stakeholders say strengthening transmission infrastructure, particularly through HVDC corridors, could unlock significant economic potential. “Investors prioritise reliability and scalability in power supply,” said a representative from an energy consultancy firm. “If Assam can offer seamless grid connectivity through HVDC, it can attract industries that require high-quality power, from advanced manufacturing to digital infrastructure.”
Large upcoming projects are expected to significantly increase electricity consumption. These include the Tata Semiconductor facility and capacity expansions by Oil India Limited and Numaligarh Refinery Limited.
Under the Advantage Assam 2.0 initiative, manufacturing units with an aggregate demand of nearly 400 MW are being established. Overall, new industrial and infrastructure projects are likely to add around 1,000 MW to the state’s demand beyond baseline growth.
In addition, Assam plans two pumped storage projects of 900 MW each, which will require substantial charging power during off-peak hours, potentially increasing off-peak demand by another 1,800 MW. Experts say this evolving demand profile will require a more flexible and responsive transmission network.
Grid stability remains a critical concern, as the Northeast’s power system is vulnerable to disruptions due to challenging terrain and extreme weather. HVDC systems provide precise control over power flows, enabling operators to maintain stability even during sudden fluctuations, particularly as renewable energy integration increases.
“We are looking at a future where the Northeast can emerge as the ‘battery of India’,” said Saddaf Alam, an energy consultant. “But a modern economy cannot run on an ageing and constrained grid. HVDC allows us to bypass congestion in the narrow Siliguri Corridor by transmitting more power through a smaller footprint. It is essential to unlocking the region’s full energy potential.”
A senior expert added, “Investment in HVDC sends a strong signal to industry. By reducing transmission losses and ensuring a steady flow of high-quality power, Assam can position itself as a competitive destination for energy-intensive sectors such as data centres and food processing. It is about ending the region’s energy isolation.”
Challenges remain, including high upfront costs for converter stations and the need for specialised technical expertise. Despite this, experts argue that the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment.
“The cost of not building this infrastructure is far greater,” said Vikram Sarma, an infrastructure analyst. “Without adequate transmission, we risk creating stranded generation assets. HVDC is the critical bridge that can convert Assam’s natural and industrial potential into sustained economic growth.”