2 weeks Ago By Venkadesan S
Chennai: Tamil Nadu is set to significantly augment its power generation capacity with the planned addition of 2,640MW through a mix of thermal and green energy projects. Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation ( TNPGCL ) and Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation (TNGECL) have outlined their plans to meet the state's increasing power demand, if all goes as per schedule. According to data from Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Tamil Nadu's total installed power capacity stood at 41,126.
68MW, as of Sept 30, 2024. Key projects expected to commence commercial operations this year include Stage III of the North Chennai Thermal Power Station (800MW), Stage I of the Udangudi Thermal power plant (1,320MW, comprising two units), the Kundah Pumped Storage Hydro Electric Power Project (500MW with four units of 125MW each), and the Kollimalai Hydro Electric Power Project (20MW). Officials from TNPGCL and TNGECL recently briefed the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) on the progress of various projects.
According to the official record of the discussion, TNPGCL is exploring the use of washed coal to potentially increase the plant load factor (PLF) of its existing units from the current 500-600MW generation. A trial run of the plant is anticipated by the end of April to cater to the summer power demand. TNPGCL has also informed TNERC about the planned installation of a flue gas desulfurisation system cleaner for power plant smoke to remove harmful sulfur before it goes into the air by June 2026, with TNERC suggesting the use of 400kVa transmission lines for power evacuation.
Similarly, two units of Stage I at the Udangudi Thermal plant are slated to begin commercial production in May and August. "Work on the power evacuation network and transportation of coal from the port to the plant is complete, and pump houses, crusher house, and cable-laying works are underway," the corporation said. Now, TNPGCL operates five thermal stations with a total installed capacity of 4,320MW, while the state's renewable power capacity stands at 19,628.
40MW. Meanwhile, TNGECL informed TNERC that the four units of the Kundah Pumped Storage project are expected to be commissioned between July and Nov. The corporation noted that "forest clearance for erecting the transmission lines for 14km is yet to be obtained and the same is being pursued.
" The Kollimalai Hydro Electric Power Project, which faced delays due to the pandemic and land disputes, is now projected to be commissioned in October, with the acquisition of the remaining land underway with the Namakkal district revenue department. TNERC has recommended the need for adequate manpower allocation for the operation and maintenance of these new plants to ensure a smooth transition from the developers to TNPGCL. The regulatory body has also requested a detailed report on the status of all projects and the steps taken by the end of this month.
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