NTPC's Major Expansion in Uttar Pradesh: Over 14,000 MW Capacity and Green Initiatives
NTPC, India's leading power generation company, is undertaking a significant expansion of its energy infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh, with an installed capacity exceeding 14,000 megawatts under its northern region. This strategic move includes major upcoming projects and a strong focus on renewable energy and sustainability.
Existing Infrastructure and Upcoming Projects
According to Diwakar Kaushik, Regional Executive Director of NTPC's Northern Region and CEO of NSPCL—NTPC's joint venture with SAIL—the company currently operates over 14,000 MW of installed capacity in Uttar Pradesh. The expansion plans are robust, with the 1,600 MW Singrauli Stage-III project expected to be commissioned by 2028. Additionally, a 20 MW solar project at Rihand is in its final stages and is scheduled to begin generation by April. The Meja Stage-II project is currently under discussion with the Uttar Pradesh government, with work anticipated to commence next year.
Renewable Energy Capacity and Development
NTPC is actively enhancing its renewable energy footprint in Uttar Pradesh. Beyond the 20 MW Rihand solar project, the company operates a 225 MW solar plant at Bilhaur near Kanpur. Furthermore, nearly 1,000 MW of solar capacity is under development in Chitrakoot and Lalitpur, showcasing a commitment to sustainable energy sources.
Green Hydrogen and Innovative Initiatives
The company is pioneering green hydrogen initiatives, with a pilot project underway in Greater Noida through its research and development wing. While the technology is stable, efforts are focused on scaling it economically. A large green hydrogen and green chemicals hub is being developed at Pudimadaka near Visakhapatnam on 1,200 acres. In Varanasi, NTPC converts 600 tonnes of municipal solid waste into green coal, which is utilized in Unchahar power station boilers. Similar projects are being considered for replication in Gorakhpur and Greater Noida.
Nuclear Power and Battery Storage Plans
NTPC's nuclear wing has identified three potential sites for nuclear power plants near Lalitpur, Sonbhadra, and Prayagraj. Proposals have been submitted to the Uttar Pradesh government, and discussions are ongoing. For energy storage, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are being piloted at non-pithead stations like Dadri to address solar intermittency. Nationally, NTPC has secured 5 GW of BESS capacity, to be deployed over the next two years.
Supporting India's Net Zero Goal and Future Priorities
NTPC is aligning its operations with India's Net Zero by 2070 goal by reducing fossil fuel emissions, expanding renewables, and planning nuclear power as a long-term replacement for coal. This ensures that growth and sustainability progress together. The company's top priorities include timely commissioning of Singrauli units, improved gas availability for Dadri and Auraiya gas plants, and on-time delivery of solar projects in Uttar Pradesh.
Opportunities in Solar Cities
NTPC has already established a 40 MW solar plant in Ayodhya and is keen to support solar initiatives in cities like Varanasi and Gorakhpur. Through NTPC Green Energy Ltd, the company participates in solar tenders nationwide, demonstrating its commitment to promoting solar energy across India.
This comprehensive expansion and green energy focus highlight NTPC's pivotal role in strengthening Uttar Pradesh's energy infrastructure while advancing India's sustainable development goals.
