National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) is conducting a contest to invite ideas on innovative utilisation of fly ash for its plants. The contest commenced on April 20, 2021, and will close on May 19, 2021. The company informed the media that the contest aims to generate ideas to achieve 100% utilisation of fly ash produced at the power plants. Through the contest, NTPC seeks the encouragement of both—its employees and the general public at large to contribute their ideas towards environment conservation. The energy major has declared total prize money of Rs 12 lakh, with the first winner receiving Rs 5 Lakh. Sustainable ash utilisation is one of the key concerns at NTPC. Fly ash is a by-product of power generation with coal. Fly ash generated at NTPC stations is ideal for use in the manufacture of cement, concrete, concrete products, cellular concrete products, bricks, blocks, tiles, among others. Dry fly ash evacuation and safe storage systems have been set up at coal-based stations to facilitate the easy availability of dry fly ash to end-users. In its attempt towards 100% utilisation of the by-product produced during power generation, NTPC has collaborated with cement manufacturers around India to supply fly ash. NTPC is leveraging the network of Indian Railways to transport fly ash in an economical and environment-friendly manner. With a total installed capacity of 65,825 MW, NTPC Group has 70 power stations, including 26 renewable projects. The company has over 18 GW of capacity under construction, including 5 GW of renewable energy projects. Image SourceAlso Read: GE Power India acquires 50% stake in NTPC-GE joint venture