The first 660 MW unit of the Udangudi Supercritical Thermal Power Project in Tamil Nadu has finally been synchronised with the grid, marking a long-awaited milestone for the state’s power sector. The project, being developed at a cost of Rs 13,076 crore by Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Corporation Ltd (TNGPCL), was originally scheduled for commissioning in 2021 but faced repeated delays due to court disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The synchronisation took place at 7.56 pm on Thursday, when the unit produced 42 MW during its initial trial run. Officials noted that the plant will undergo inspections and troubleshooting during trial operations before moving toward commercial generation in the coming months.

A senior TNGPCL official said the unit is expected to be commissioned in time to meet next summer’s projected peak demand of 22,000 MW. “Generation from our own thermal units will reduce reliance on high-cost power purchases from outside sources,” the official added.

The project’s engineering, procurement, and construction contract was awarded to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in December 2017. Alongside Udangudi, TNGPCL chairman J Radhakrishnan has directed BHEL to accelerate work on the 2×660 MW Ennore SEZ supercritical project, with at least one unit targeted for commissioning by March 2026.

During a site visit at Vayalur in Tiruvallur district, Radhakrishnan said that about 70 per cent of construction at Ennore had been completed and urged faster resolution of legal disputes delaying the work. He also reviewed operations at the North Chennai thermal stations, stressing timely maintenance and replacement of ageing components.