Assam clears long-term plan to source 500 MW coal power
COAL & MINING

Assam clears long-term plan to source 500 MW coal power

The Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission has given in-principle approval to Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL) to procure 500 MW of coal-based power under 25-year contracts, as the state looks to meet growing electricity demand.

The procurement will be implemented in phases — 200 MW starting FY26 and another 300 MW from FY29 — at a levelised tariff of Rs 5.79 per kWh, discovered through competitive bidding on the power ministry’s DEEP portal.

The decision comes amid Assam’s accelerating energy needs driven by rapid urbanisation, industrial expansion, and rural electrification. Officials said the new power agreements were guided by projections in the Central Electricity Authority’s Resource Adequacy Plan, which recommends fresh coal-based contracts until FY35 to ensure stable supply and meet renewable purchase obligations.

APDCL currently sources electricity from 36 entities, including central allocations, IPPs, and its own hydro plants. However, seasonal variation in hydropower output — due to erratic monsoons and drought-like conditions — has made grid reliability a challenge.

“This is a bridging measure to address short- to mid-term supply gaps,” an APDCL official said. “While we scale up renewables, we need firm coal-based supply to avoid disruptions.”

AERC has cleared the deal under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and will monitor performance, environmental compliance, and tariff revisions. Officials also confirmed that the procurement is part of a broader transition plan that includes hybrid renewable projects and large-scale battery storage.

Image source:www.orfonline.org

The Assam Electricity Regulatory Commission has given in-principle approval to Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL) to procure 500 MW of coal-based power under 25-year contracts, as the state looks to meet growing electricity demand. The procurement will be implemented in phases — 200 MW starting FY26 and another 300 MW from FY29 — at a levelised tariff of Rs 5.79 per kWh, discovered through competitive bidding on the power ministry’s DEEP portal. The decision comes amid Assam’s accelerating energy needs driven by rapid urbanisation, industrial expansion, and rural electrification. Officials said the new power agreements were guided by projections in the Central Electricity Authority’s Resource Adequacy Plan, which recommends fresh coal-based contracts until FY35 to ensure stable supply and meet renewable purchase obligations. APDCL currently sources electricity from 36 entities, including central allocations, IPPs, and its own hydro plants. However, seasonal variation in hydropower output — due to erratic monsoons and drought-like conditions — has made grid reliability a challenge. “This is a bridging measure to address short- to mid-term supply gaps,” an APDCL official said. “While we scale up renewables, we need firm coal-based supply to avoid disruptions.” AERC has cleared the deal under Section 63 of the Electricity Act, 2003, and will monitor performance, environmental compliance, and tariff revisions. Officials also confirmed that the procurement is part of a broader transition plan that includes hybrid renewable projects and large-scale battery storage.Image source:www.orfonline.org

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?