From Gridlock to Growth: Punjab’s Power Upgrade Gets Three 800-MW Units

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From Gridlock to Growth: Punjab’s Power Upgrade Gets Three 800-MW Units

The Union Government has approved the commissioning of three more 800-MW power generation plants in Punjab, a major addition to the energy infrastructure of the state. The Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar made the announcement following the North Indian Power Ministers' Conference, where the demand of Punjab for more generation capacity was officially met.

Strategic Expansion and Infrastructure Upgrades

Two of the new units will be installed at the Ropar Thermal Power Plant, increasing its current capacity.

The third 800-MW unit will be installed at a new site, complementing Punjab's energy supply further.

The move paves the way for 2,400 MW of further thermal power capacity, providing electricity availability stability in the long run.

Coal Supply and Policy Adjustments

Punjab's coal transportation limit has been increased from 1,000 km to 1,500 km to ease logistics for thermal plants.

State government stressed Punjab has coal mines of its own but earlier restrictions would not allow efficient use.

The Centre's new policy will enable more flexibility in the procurement of coal, facilitating seamless power generation.

Renewable Energy and Future Targets

The Union Government has also assigned a target of 7,000 MW of solar power generation for Punjab, although land costs are high.

Punjab is looking to overcome this by developing solar energy projects in other states as well so that there is a constant supply of renewable power.

The state has also sought an additional 1,000 MW of power from the Centre to match seasonal requirements of agriculture.

Impact on Agriculture and Public Utilities

The clearance is pre-monsoon, which is the season of maximum electricity usage for irrigation.

Punjab is getting 275 MW from the Central pool now, but this will raise availability much more.

The state government has asked for rapid execution to get farmers timely power supply.

Sources: Tribune India, Times of India, Financial Express, MSN India, Kashmir Observer, DD News.