Ghatampur Thermal Power Plant: A Game-Changer on the Horizon
In a strategic maneuver aimed at shaping the future of India’s coal sector, the Ministry of Coal is fervently propelling an expansive diversification initiative among Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).
Leading this paradigm shift is NLC India Limited (NLCIL), which is on the brink of establishing two groundbreaking thermal power plants that hold the potential to revolutionize the nation’s energy grid.
Pioneering Northern Power: The Ghatampur Thermal Power Plant
Strategically located in Ghatampur near Kanpur, NLCIL’s first power plant is ready to provide an impressive 1478.28 MW of power to Uttar Pradesh, while also contributing a substantial 492.72 MW to Assam.
This joint venture between NLCIL and the Government of Uttar Pradesh, projected to require a budget of Rs. 19,406 crores, is not only well underway but also rapidly progressing towards its first critical milestone.
The commencement of the inaugural phase is earmarked for the year’s end, signifying a momentous leap forward in the nation’s energy evolution.
Energizing the South: The Talabira Thermal Power Plant
Complementing its northern aspirations, NLCIL is embarking on a visionary undertaking – the establishment of a 3 X 800 MW pithead thermal power plant nestled in the heart of Talabira, Odisha.
Envisioned at a cost of Rs. 19,422 crores, this meticulously designed plant aims to distribute 1450 MW of energy to Tamil Nadu, an additional 100 MW to Puducherry, and a further 400 MW to Kerala.
The groundwork for this transformative endeavor is scheduled to commence later this year, propelling the ambitious project toward its culmination in completion by the year 2028-29.
Coal India Ltd Drives Diversification Efforts Full Steam Ahead
Coal India Ltd (CIL) remains unwavering in its commitment to diversifying its portfolio and spearheading India’s resolute energy transformation.
The company is gearing up to establish two consequential thermal power plants that are poised to reshape the nation’s energy landscape.
Amarkantak’s Beacon of Energy
CIL’s collaborative venture with the Madhya Pradesh Government, situated near Amarkantak, is on the brink of actualization. Carrying a planned capacity of 1×660 MW and a budget of Rs. 5,600 crores, this power plant represents an unequivocal beacon of progress.
Of paramount significance, SECL, a subsidiary of CIL, will infuse Rs. 857 crores as equity.
SECL and Madhya Pradesh Power Generating Company Ltd are collaboratively driving the ambitious project, with plans to commence construction before the fiscal year concludes. They are resolutely targeting completion by 2028.
Of utmost importance is the successful securing of all necessary land for this crucial venture.
Mahanadi Basin Power Limited: Illuminating a Trailblazing Tomorrow
Mahanadi Coal Fields Ltd (MCL), a subsidiary of CIL, is embarking on an innovative journey by establishing Mahanadi Basin Power Limited, a fully owned subsidiary.
At the core of this transformative initiative lies a 2×800 MW thermal power plant nestled near Basundhara Mines, with an estimated cost of Rs. 15,947 crores.
This project has attracted substantial attention from diverse states, securing Power Purchase Agreements for a combined total of 4000 MW. It stands poised to invigorate the future of energy. Anticipated to commence construction by mid-next year, the project aims for completion by the year 2028.
Forging Sustainability: Charting the Path Ahead
Guided by a forward-looking vision, the Ministry of Coal has proactively steered CIL and its subsidiaries toward meticulously identifying suitable land for the pioneering of pithead thermal power plants.
This strategic shift originates from the projection of a substantial coal surplus, thus effectively laying a robust foundation for the facilitation of sustainable operations and the generation of affordable energy.
This innovative approach boasts a fixed cost of approximately Rs. 2.5 and a variable cost of Rs. 1.25 per unit, ultimately enabling power generation at an impressive rate of less than Rs. 4 per unit.
A Synergy of Energies: Fusing Thermal and Solar Power
In alignment with the Ministry of Power’s policies, NLCIL and CIL are not only transforming thermal power but also seamlessly integrating renewable energy. The upcoming power plants will seamlessly integrate renewable energy potential, especially solar, enhancing cost-effective power supply to consumers.
This visionary strategy underscores an unwavering commitment to both environmental stewardship and economic vibrancy.
Sources: THX News & Ministry of Coal.
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