The Uttarakhand Climate Resilient Power System Development Project will modernise the power network infrastructure by introducing an advanced and climate–resilient underground cable system

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has greenlit a USD200 million loan aimed at enhancing the power supply infrastructure in Uttarakhand, India, with a focus on improving quality, efficiency, and reliability. The project aligns with Uttarakhand’s ambition to provide round-the-clock electricity to its residents and transition towards cleaner energy sources. ADB Senior Energy Specialist Jaimes Kolantharaj emphasised the significance of rehabilitating and modernising power facilities to uplift lives and sustain economic growth in the state.

The initiative primarily targets the modernisation of Dehradun city’s power network infrastructure by introducing an advanced underground cable system spanning 537 kilometers. This climate-resilient system will comprise subterranean cables, ring main units and compact substations. Additionally, the project aims to enhance the current power system by installing upstream substations and associated power lines to address rising electricity demand, alleviate network congestion, and bolster power distribution reliability in urban and suburban areas.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, the project includes a social component, empowering women self-help groups in rural hilly districts. This involves providing access to renewable energy sources and energy-efficient equipment to enhance livelihoods. ADB will facilitate training programs for communities, emphasising energy conservation and business management skills. Furthermore, awareness and educational activities in schools will be conducted to promote employment opportunities in the energy sector. Nongovernmental organisations will play a crucial role in implementing and monitoring livelihood activities.

Support for the project extends beyond the loan, with the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific, financed by the Government of Japan through ADB, providing a USD2 million grant. This grant aims to support livelihood enhancement, training and awareness-raising activities associated with the project.

In addition to infrastructure and social aspects, ADB plans to enhance the capacity of the Power Transmission Corporation of Uttarakhand and the Uttarakhand Power Corporation Limited. This involves conducting leadership courses and project management programs to develop climate-resilient power sector projects. Collaborating with the Energy Department, ADB aims to formulate an energy transition roadmap supporting Uttarakhand’s low-carbon transition.

Established in 1966, ADB remains dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. Owned by 68 members, 49 from the region, ADB maintains its commitment to eradicating extreme poverty.