UP Power Corporation to build five thermal power plants

In a bid to meet shortfall of power in the state, Uttar Pradesh government has decided to build five thermal power plants with a total generation capacity of 9,940 Mw.     

"It has been planned to set up five thermal power projects in the state, including a 4,000 Mw ultra mega power plant (UMPP) in Chitrakoot district," a senior UP Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) officer said.

"The state utility has already started an exercise in this regard and has invited request for proposal for selection of consultant," he added.     

The five plants, including an UMPP of 4,000 Mw, will be built by the private sector on the basis of tariff based competitive bidding process.    

However, the basic infrastructure will be developed by the UPPCL, official sources said.

As per the plan, the 4000-Mw UMPP will be set up in Chitrakoot district and a 3x660 Mw thermal plant in Bargadh, in Farukkhabad district.     

"In addition, three 2x660 Mw plant each have been proposed in Chola in Bulandshahr, Dohrighat in Mau and Sabdila in Hardoi district," sources added.     

Earlier the Tata Group was planning to set a thermal plant in Chola, but now it will be done by the UPPCL itself, they said.

The officials added the initial exercise would be carried out by four power distribution companies constituted under the state power utility.     

"Once the preparatory stage is over, these projects will be handed over to private agencies for execution," they said.     

As part of the preparatory exercise, the consultant selected will be required to prepare a feasibility report, a project report and assess the environmental impact of the plants for the purpose of securing environmental clearance from the UP Pollution Control Board and Union Ministry of Environment and Forest.     

"The last date for submitting bids for Chitrakoot and Bargadh power plants is October 14, whereas for remaining three the cut off date is October 15," the officials said.     

"A proposal in this regard would be presented before the state cabinet soon for approval," they added.

At present the total installed capacity of all the five thermal power plants run by UP Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam in the state is around 4,000 Mw.     

Sources said between 1994 to 2007-08 total power generation of the state had increased by nominal 420 Mw.