NTPC Simhadri Drives Power, Pushes Green Transition
NTPC Simhadri, the country’s first coastal-based thermal power station, has maintained strong operational performance even as it accelerates its shift towards cleaner and more sustainable operations.
With an installed capacity of 2,000 MW and a 25 MW floating solar project, the station continues to play a key role in meeting the power needs of southern States, supplying electricity to Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. Officials said consistent generation has helped ensure grid stability amid rising demand.
Addressing the media on Monday, Ayaskanta Jena, Head of Project, said the station has been maintaining a high plant load factor (PLF), supported by efficient operations, steady coal supplies from Talcher in Odisha, and robust maintenance practices. Of the total output, about 34.2% is allocated to Andhra Pradesh and 39.6% to Telangana.
The station is also strengthening environmental compliance. Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems are being installed to curb sulphur dioxide emissions in line with stricter norms. Ash utilisation has exceeded 100% for the ninth consecutive year since 2017-18, with fly ash being used in the cement and infrastructure sectors.
“Maintaining a high PLF in a large coal-based station reflects strong operational discipline and efficient resource management,” Mr. Jena said.
Water conservation measures have reduced dependence on freshwater, with over 85% of requirements being met through seawater. Recycling systems and efficient water-use practices have also been put in place.
On the proposed NTPC Green Hydrogen Hub at Pudimadaka, to be developed at an estimated cost of ₹1.85 lakh crore, Mr. Jena said the project is progressing as scheduled, with several packages nearing finalisation. He noted that, in the initial phase, it will transport carbon dioxide via tankers for conversion into ethanol and sustainable aviation fuel.
Mr. Jena said afforestation under the ‘Green Visakha’ initiative has led to the planting of lakhs of saplings across Visakhapatnam and Anakapalle districts, while the station premises have been declared plastic-free. He added that the station would continue to adopt global best practices, expand its renewable energy portfolio, and work towards achieving net-zero emissions.