Shillong, July 3: The Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited (MeECL) has revised its power generation strategy following below-normal rainfall in June, increasing its reliance on thermal and solar power to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply across the state.
Commissioner and Secretary in charge of the Power Department, Sanjay Goyal, said the weak monsoon has affected hydroelectric generation, particularly at the Umiam reservoir system, but assured that there will be no shortage of electricity during July and August.
He said the rainfall received in June, which is typically one of the wettest months of the year, was significantly lower than expected, a trend also confirmed by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
In response to the rainfall deficit, MeECL has reworked its power generation plan by increasing electricity procurement under long-term thermal power agreements and from solar power producers.
Goyal said the reduced inflow into the Umiam basin has affected hydropower production. Umiam Stage I, which normally operates at its full capacity of 36 MW during this period, is currently generating below capacity due to inadequate water replenishment. The reduced generation has also impacted downstream hydel stations, including Umiam Stages II, III and IV, as well as the New Umtru project.
Despite the decline in hydroelectric output, Goyal said the overall power situation remains stable as the corporation has already secured sufficient power for the coming months through a combination of internal generation and procurement from external agencies.
He expressed confidence that Meghalaya would not face any power shortages, stating that the only change has been in the composition of the state’s power mix, with greater dependence on thermal and solar energy to offset reduced hydropower generation caused by the weaker monsoon.
