MSPDCL Seeks Cabinet Nod for 100 MW NTPC Power Allocation to Tackle Manipur’s Winter Shortage

Imphal, August 16: The Manipur State Power Distribution Company Limited (MSPDCL) has sought Cabinet approval to secure an additional 100 MW of electricity from NTPC’s Farakka Super Thermal Power Project in West Bengal to address the state’s growing power shortage.

The proposed power allocation from NTPC Farakka Super Thermal Power Project (Stages I and II)would be available at a rate of Rs 4.14 per unit, according to MSPDCL Managing Director M Rabi Singh.

The move comes amid concerns that Manipur could face a significant electricity deficit during the upcoming winter months as hydropower generation declines while demand rises.

Manipur Could Face 150 MW Power Deficit in Winter

Rabi Singh said Manipur’s peak electricity demand could increase substantially during the winter season.

At present, the state has a long-term allocated power capacity of 291.69 MW. However, actual power availability fell to around 160–170 MW during June and July 2026.

During the same period, peak electricity demand reached approximately 260 MW, representing an increase of around 20 MW compared with the previous year.

The gap between available supply and demand has raised concerns about power shortages across the state.

Winter Demand Could Reach 300–310 MW

According to MSPDCL, the situation could become more challenging during the winter months.

Peak electricity demand is expected to reach approximately 300–310 MW, while available generation could remain significantly lower.

This could result in a potential power deficit of around 140–150 MW.

The proposed 100 MW allocation from NTPC is therefore intended to help bridge a substantial portion of the anticipated shortage.

Delayed Monsoon and Low Hydropower Generation Affect Supply

The MSPDCL Managing Director attributed the current power constraints partly to the delayed monsoon, dry spells and reduced run-of-the-river hydropower generation.

Manipur relies significantly on hydropower generation, making electricity availability vulnerable to seasonal changes in water flow.

Lower generation during dry periods can create a significant mismatch between available supply and peak demand.

MSPDCL Arranges Power Banking for Winter

Apart from seeking additional power from NTPC, MSPDCL has also secured return-energy banking arrangements of 50–66 MW during peak hours for the period from December 2026 to March 2027.

Under the arrangement, Manipur will be able to draw additional electricity when demand is high and return an equivalent amount of energy later when power generation improves.

The arrangement is expected to provide additional flexibility to the state’s power management during the winter shortage.

Proposed NTPC Power to Cost Rs 4.14 Per Unit

The proposed 100 MW allocation from the NTPC Farakka Super Thermal Power Project is expected to cost Manipur Rs 4.14 per unit.

The proposal now requires approval from the state Cabinet before the additional power allocation can be formally secured.

If approved, the arrangement could provide MSPDCL with another source of electricity to manage the anticipated winter deficit.

Domestic Electricity Tariff Revised

Meanwhile, MSPDCL has also announced changes to the monthly domestic electricity tariff.

Under the revised tariff structure, the rate for the first 100 units has increased from Rs 5.10 to Rs 5.36 per unit.

For consumption between 101 and 200 units, the rate has increased from Rs 5.95 to Rs 6.25 per unit.

For consumption above 200 units, consumers will now pay Rs 7.10 per unit, compared with the earlier rate of Rs 6.75.

Revised Domestic Electricity Charges

Monthly consumption	Earlier rate	Revised rate
First 100 units	Rs 5.10/unit	Rs 5.36/unit
Next 100 units	Rs 5.95/unit	Rs 6.25/unit
Above 200 units	Rs 6.75/unit	Rs 7.10/unit

Commercial Power Tariffs Also Revised

The revised tariff structure also changes electricity charges for commercial consumers.

Commercial users will be charged:

• First 100 units: Rs 7.07 per unit
• Next 100 units: Rs 7.85 per unit
• Above 200 units: Rs 8.30 per unit

The revised charges come as the state power utility works to manage rising electricity demand and seasonal supply constraints.

Power Supply Challenge Ahead

With peak demand potentially reaching 300–310 MW during winter, ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply is expected to remain a major challenge for Manipur.

The proposed 100 MW NTPC allocation, combined with the return-energy banking arrangement, is aimed at reducing the anticipated deficit.

However, the state’s dependence on seasonal hydropower generation means electricity availability could continue to fluctuate depending on weather and water conditions.

For consumers, the coming months could therefore bring both efforts to improve supply and higher electricity tariffs under the revised pricing structure.

Disclaimer: The power-demand, availability, tariff and proposed NTPC allocation figures in this report are based on the information provided regarding statements by MSPDCL Managing Director M Rabi Singh. The 100 MW allocation remains subject to Cabinet approval.