TN to Add 2620 MW Power Capacity by Year-End
The TNPGCL plans to work with the Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation (TNGECL) on these projects. Both organisations spoke to the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) regarding the state of progress on the projects. They revealed that all three plants are expected to commence commercial production by the end of the year. They also announced their intention of using washed coal to increase the percentage of energy generated.
North Chennai Thermal Power Station Stage-III: This 800 MW unit, which is already synchronised with the Chennai grid, is undergoing final trials. Despite this seeming success, the plant has been plagued by difficulties, namely the quality of coal and boiler tube equipment. The poor boiler equipment caused the plant to stay under forced outage from January 31st to March 17th, 2025, being allowed to function on March 19th. Regardless, the plant is expected to be commissioned soon.
Udangudi Thermal Power Station Stage-I: This plant is expected to be synchronised by April 2025 and verified for safety regulations by May. A second round of synchronisation and verification is planned for July and August respectively. The plant has already made arrangements for the supply of coal and has evacuation infrastructure already in place. For Stage II and III of the station, the TN government has sanctioned the acquisition of 1500 acres of land, and the process of transfer is underway.
Kundah Pumped Storage Hydro Project (500 MW): This 500 MW project consists of 4, 125 MW units and has faced numerous delays. The third and fourth units will be verified in July and August respectively, while the first and second units will be verified in November. The overall plant, however, is currently awaiting forest clearance so that it can install transmission lines.