TNPDCL Completes Major Thermal Plant Overhaul Ahead of Summer Peak
The Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation Ltd (TNPDCL) has successfully completed comprehensive overhauling operations at its thermal power plants to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply throughout the upcoming summer season. This strategic maintenance initiative comes as the state prepares for projected peak power demand exceeding 22,000 megawatts in April 2026.
North Chennai Thermal Station Maintenance Completed
On Friday, TNPDCL officials confirmed that maintenance work on all three units of the 630MW Stage I facility at the North Chennai thermal power station has been successfully finished. The overhauling of Stage II units had already been completed earlier, creating a robust foundation for summer power generation.
The corporation's 800MW supercritical Stage III unit, which commenced commercial operations on January 24, has temporarily halted generation since January 27. Production was paused for essential maintenance after the unit operated continuously for three days following its commissioning.
"Minor technical issues are being addressed, and we expect the plant to operate at full capacity by next week," stated TNPDCL officials, expressing confidence in the unit's imminent restoration to service.
Preparing for Record Summer Power Demand
Peak power demand in Tamil Nadu is projected to surpass 22,000MW in April 2026, coinciding with both the onset of intense summer conditions and the state Assembly elections. This anticipated surge follows a year where expected demand increases didn't materialize due to unseasonal summer rains in 2025.
During 2025, electricity demand touched the 20,000MW threshold only once, with daily consumption averaging approximately 400 million units. This contrasts sharply with 2024, when power demand increased by 7.32%, setting record highs of 454.32 million units consumed in a single day and a peak demand of 20,830MW.
Anticipating a demand surge similar to 2024 levels, TNPDCL has proactively secured multiple medium- and short-term power purchase agreements while negotiating an increased allocation from the central power grid. These measures form part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent power shortages during peak consumption periods.
Tuticorin Thermal Station Restoration Progress
The power corporation, which operates Tamil Nadu's thermal and gas-based plants with a combined installed capacity of 5,528MW, is simultaneously progressing with restoration work at the fire-damaged Tuticorin thermal station. Currently, three of the facility's five units are functioning normally.
"Of the two damaged units, one is expected to resume electricity generation in April, with the other unit scheduled for restoration by June," officials explained, outlining the phased recovery plan for the critical power generation facility.
This multi-faceted approach combining plant maintenance, capacity restoration, and power procurement agreements demonstrates TNPDCL's comprehensive preparation strategy to meet Tamil Nadu's growing electricity requirements during the challenging summer months ahead.
