Sambalpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate the foundation stone for NLC India Limited's (NLCIL) 2,400 Megawatt Supercritical Thermal Power Plant in Sambalpur, Odisha, today.

According to an official statement from the Ministry of Coal, "The foundation stone for the Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL) Talabira Thermal Power Project, valued at over Rs 27,000 crore, will be laid, aligning perfectly with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat."

This advanced project aims to provide reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted power, significantly contributing to the nation's energy security and playing a crucial role in driving economic growth.

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to promote the establishment of Thermal Power Plants near coal mines to reduce coal transportation costs, the Ministry of Coal has planned Thermal Power Plants to be set up by coal CPSUs.

A press release from the Ministry of Coal stated, "The government has approved the establishment of a 3 x 800 MW Ultra Super Critical Thermal Power Plant at Talabira through NLCIL. NLCIL has been allocated Talabira coal mines with total reserves of 553 million tonnes (MT) with a peak rated capacity of 23 MT."

"Once operational, this pit-head plant will generate electricity at Rs 3.65 per unit (Rs 2.40 fixed cost and Rs 1.25 variable cost) (approx.), which is among the cheapest power produced by TPPs in the country," it added.

This pithead power station will be closely linked to NLCIL's captive coal blocks, Talabira II and III, ensuring sustainability. The thermal power plant features higher efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and an impressive 10% eco-friendly biomass co-firing initiative.

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) have already secured the supply of 800 MW to Odisha, 1,500 MW to Tamil Nadu, 400 MW to Kerala, and 100 MW to Puducherry. The engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for the Main Plant, valued at Rs 18,255 crore, has been awarded to BHEL.

The first 800 MW unit is expected to be commissioned in 52 months from the zero date, with subsequent units coming online at intervals of six months.

This significant project marks a substantial step towards strengthening India's energy resilience, representing a significant stride in embracing sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

It underscores our commitment to a greener future and serves as a symbol of progress in the nation's pursuit of energy security and environmental stewardship.

Meanwhile, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also announced the same and said on Saturday, "Today is a fortunate day since PM Modi will arrive in Sambalpur and will inaugurate projects worth crores here for the development of the state."

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