Jammu and Kashmir harnesses only 3,540 MW of potential

Jammu and Kashmir has significant potential for hydropower, estimated at 18,000 megawatts. However, only 3,540 megawatts have been developed so far. This information was shared by Javed Ahmad Rana, the minister for Jal Shakti, in the legislative assembly. Of the total hydropower potential, 14,867 megawatts have been identified for development. The majority of this potential is in the Chenab basin, with 11,283 megawatts, followed by the Jhelum basin with 3,084 megawatts, and the Ravi basin with 500 megawatts. Rana noted that 23.81% of the identified potential, or 3,540 megawatts, has been harnessed. In addition to hydropower, Jammu and Kashmir is also tapping into solar energy. The region has installed solar power plants in 4,648 government buildings and 5,463 households, totaling a capacity of 41,367 and 34,300 megawatts, respectively. The overall solar potential is around 111 gigawatts, mainly in the Ladakh area. However, large solar projects have been challenging to establish due to the region's topography, which complicates land acquisition. Despite this, Jammu and Kashmir has successfully installed 75 megawatts of rooftop solar capacity through various government schemes. The ongoing installations are part of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojna, aimed at expanding solar energy usage in residential areas.