J&K generates only 600 MWs hydroelectricity against generation capacity of 3500 MWs during winters
JAMMU: Regarding the false information about Ratle Power Projects that has appeared in a number of newspapers and other media outlets, the following is a point-by-point rebuttal complete with statistics: Both the State and Central sectors of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu & Kashmir are developing hydropower projects. Eleventy million of the 3500 MW installed generation capacity now in use comes from plants owned by UT, which include the 110 MW Lower Jehlum, 110 MW Upper Sindh, and 900 MW Baglihar projects. The remaining 2300 MW comes from central sector plants, with important ones being Salal, Dul-Hasti, Uri, and Kishanganga. Because of a drop in river levels, power plants in J&K, both in the central and state sectors, can only produce a maximum of 600 MW during the winter months compared to their rated capacity of 3500 MW. But in winter, when demand peaks at 3200 MW, it's clear that hydroelectric power facilities are unable to meet J&K's electricity needs. The majority of the electricity generated by J&K's own power plants comes from the 900 MW-producing Baghliar Hydro Electric Project (BHEP).A total of 200–250 MW are produced by other locally owned power plants, including as Upper Sindh, Lower Jehlum, Chennani, etc. Through UT's own producing plants, this amounts to about 1100–1140 MW, with a winter decrease to about 200 MW. Throughout the winter, Central Generating Stations (CGS) both inside and outside of J&K provide the remaining power needed. A significant portion of the 1140 MW installed capacity in the UT sector—roughly 1030 MW, or 88% of the total capacity—is used in J&K. The remaining 150 MW is sold outside of J&K in accordance with agreements made in 2009—first through PTC and then bilaterally with Haryana. The Government of India has set Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) targets, making it mandatory for every State/UT to procure some quantum of hydro and…