CCL & Jharkhand Power Up: Tenughat Expansion Takes Flight

Central Coalfields (CCL), a subsidiary of Coal India, is currently in discussions with the Jharkhand government to explore the potential formation of a joint venture (JV) for the second-phase expansion of the Tenughat Thermal Power Station (TTPS). Situated in Lalpania village, Bokaro district, the existing power plant operates two units of 210 megawatts (MW) each. The proposed expansion aims to augment the facility with two supercritical units of 660 MW each, thereby increasing the overall installed capacity of the TPP to 1,740 MW.

Recent high-level talks between representatives from CCL and the Jharkhand government have laid the foundation for this prospective collaboration. In a mutual understanding, both parties have decided to establish two committees to deliberate on the specifics of the JV partnership and address other modalities.

The envisioned partnership would involve the Jharkhand government providing the necessary land for the expansion, while CCL would contribute coal for the supercritical units sourced from its nearby mines. The strategic proximity of CCL's mines to the power plant positions it as a crucial and convenient source for coal supply.

Operated by Tenughat Vidyut Nigam (TVNL), a Jharkhand government undertaking, TTPS plays a crucial role in supplying approximately 350 MW to the state grid. The electricity generated is allocated to the state-owned distribution company, Jharkhand Bijli Vitaran Nigam.

This development aligns with the broader strategic vision of Coal India and its subsidiaries, which involves diversifying revenue streams through investments in thermal power plants (TPPs) and exploring renewable energy sources. Recently, the Union Cabinet approved a cumulative equity investment of ₹5,607 crore by two CIL subsidiaries for the establishment of two pithead thermal power plants (TPPs) with a combined capacity of 2,260 MW.

In encouraging mining Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to diversify, the Coal Ministry is actively promoting strategies beyond TPPs, including the implementation of solar and wind power projects. As India's power demand continues to escalate, the Ministry underscores the significance of TPPs, particularly pit-head TPPs, in maintaining the stability of the power grid.

Coal India, alongside other mining PSUs like NLCIL, is actively pursuing plans to add a coal-based capacity of 6,640 MW, requiring an investment exceeding ₹60,300 crore. These projects are anticipated to be commissioned by the fiscal year 2029, contributing significantly to India's energy infrastructure and addressing the burgeoning demand for power.

News by Rahul Yelligetti