The power ministry has approved modifications to the scheme providing budgetary support for enabling infrastructure costs associated with hydro-electric projects (HEPs). The scheme has a total outlay of Rs 124.61 billion and will be implemented from 2024-25 to 2031-32. The modifications include expanding eligible costs to cover not only roads and bridges but also transmission lines, ropeways, railway sidings, and communication infrastructure.
The scheme will support projects with a cumulative generation capacity of about 31,350 MW, including private sector and pumped storage projects. Projects with a letter of award issued up to 30th June 2028 are eligible. The support limit is set at Rs 10 million per MW for projects up to 200 MW and Rs 20 million plus Rs 7.5 million per MW for projects exceeding 200 MW, with a potential increase to Rs 15 million per MW for exceptional cases.
