Ramgarh: Patratu Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (PVUNL), a joint venture between NTPC Limited and the Jharkhand government in Ramgarh district, is poised to transform the state from a power-deficient region into a self-sufficient and surplus entity. With an expected surplus of around 600 megawatts (MW), Jharkhand will not only meet its own electricity demands but also have the capacity to sell power to other states, thereby catalyzing industrial growth and employment generation.
Current Operational Status
In an exclusive interview with TOI, PVUNL Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ashok Kumar Sehgal revealed that Unit-1 of the plant, which has an installed capacity of 800 MW, has been operational since November 5 of the previous year. As per the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between NTPC Limited and the state, this unit is already supplying 85% of its generated power to Jharkhand. Sehgal further confirmed that Unit-2, with an identical capacity of 800 MW, is now ready for commercial operations.
Surplus Power Generation
Sehgal elaborated, "Once Unit-2 is declared commercially operational, Jharkhand will receive 85% of the power from both units, totaling 1,600 MW. This will leave the state with a surplus of over 600 MW, which can be sold to neighboring states." This surplus is expected to provide a significant revenue stream and enhance the state's energy security.
Future Expansion Plans
Looking ahead, Sehgal announced that Unit-3, also of 800 MW capacity and part of Phase-I of the project, is targeted for commissioning within the next six months. Phase-I comprises three units of 800 MW each, bringing the total installed capacity to 2,400 MW. "With the commissioning of Unit-3, the state will have even more surplus power. In the coming days, NTPC Limited and the Jharkhand government will jointly work to make the state fully self-reliant in terms of power," Sehgal stated.
Background of PVUNL
PVUNL was incorporated in 2015 and took over the assets of the state government's Patratu Thermal Power Station (PTPS) in 2016. The foundation stone of the project was laid online by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. This joint venture underscores the collaboration between central and state authorities to bolster energy infrastructure.
Impact on Industrial Growth and Employment
The surplus power generation is expected to attract new industries to Jharkhand, leveraging reliable and affordable electricity. This, in turn, will create numerous employment opportunities, contributing to the state's economic development. The availability of surplus power also positions Jharkhand as a key player in the regional energy market.
Author's Note
NK Agrawal, with three decades of experience in journalism, covers Ramgarh district and writes on a wide range of subjects including railways, coal, agriculture, and tourism.
