The Chamera-1 Hydro Power Station in Himachal Pradesh has been operational for over three decades and continues to generate electricity above its original design energy target, according to official data. Commissioned in the mid-1990s, the 540-megawatt plant contributes to the northern regional grid.

Located in the Chamba district on the Ravi River, the facility is operated by NHPC Limited. It comprises three generating units of 180 MW each housed in an underground powerhouse. The station supplies electricity to beneficiary states in the Northern Region grid as per central allocation, under long-term power purchase agreements. Himachal Pradesh receives a designated share of power under existing arrangements, including free power as the host state, as per prevailing hydropower policy provisions.

Operational data indicate that in recent years the plant has exceeded its initial annual design generation benchmark, measured in million units (MUs). Hydropower from such facilities is used within the grid to balance supply variations from other renewable sources, including solar and wind.

The project includes a concrete gravity dam, a reservoir for water storage, and a gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) system. The turbines were designed to operate in high silt conditions typical of Himalayan river systems. Maintenance schedules have been carried out in accordance with operational requirements over the project’s lifespan.

Station officials have indicated that the facility is preparing to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems to support operational monitoring and maintenance planning. The proposed integration remains at a preliminary stage. AI applications may include predictive maintenance tools and operational optimisation based on hydrological data and grid demand patterns.

Hydropower remains part of India’s renewable energy mix alongside solar and wind installations. Chamera-1 represents one of several long-standing hydroelectric projects contributing to the regional electricity supply in northern India.