NLC, BHEL to develop 2400 MW Odisha thermal power project

The plant's first unit is expected to start operation in FY 2028-29.

NLC India Ltd. has awarded an EPC contract to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) to construct a pit head green field thermal power project with a 2,400 MW capacity at Jharsuguda District in Odisha.

In a statement, the Ministry of Coal said the power generated from the project is linked to the states of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Kerala, and Puducherry, with power purchase agreements (PPA) already formalised.

Under the contract, both entities will cover the engineering, manufacturing, supply, erection, and commissioning of equipment such as boilers, turbines, generators, and balance of plants.

With the thermal project being based on ultra-supercritical technology, the coal linkage will be accessible from 20 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) from the Talabira II& III mines of NLCIL, operational from 2020 in the Jharsuguda and Sambalpur Districts of Odisha.

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The water required is sourced from the Hirakud Reservoir and the power generated will be distributed through the ISTS and STU Network.

The first unit of the Odisha thermal power project is projected to be operational in FY 2028-29, aiming for the facility to deliver low-cost competitive power to its beneficiaries.