Punjab gets 2640-Mw project from NTPC
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, October 7
The Punjab government today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to set up a 2640-Mw coal-based power project at Gidderbaha at Rs 15,000 crore. This will be the biggest thermal power plant in the state and will help in developing ancillary industries and provide employment to thousands.

The MOU was signed by Arun Goel, Principal Secretary Power, Punjab, and IJ Kapoor, Director/Commercial, NTPC. Engineer KD Chaudhri, CMD and Engineer GS Chhabra, Director/ Generation, Punjab State Power Corporation were also present.

It is after 40 years that Punjab has been able to get such a large investment. The government has agreed to facilitate acquisition of land, allocation of water and conveyed in-principle clearance for about 2,316 acres and 125 cusecs of water. A notification under Section 4 of the Land Acquisition Act has been issued.

The plant will comprise 4 units of 660 MW each, to be funded by NTPC.

At least 50 per cent of the power from the plant shall be allocated to Punjab. NTPC has sought long-term coal linkages from the coal ministry. Punjab government will extend co-operation in obtaining the coal linkage for the project.

Punjab State Power Corporation shall provide NTPC with reports, specific studies/investigations rewuired for the project. The cost on these shall be reimbursed by NTPC. PSPCL shall enter into a Power Purchase Agreement with NTPC for purchase of power allocated from the proposed project. The tariff would be as determined by Central Electricity Regulatory Commission.