Neyveli Lignite to tap solar power energy

Neyveli Lignite Corporation today received in-principle approval from its Board for taking part in solar power projects announced by various states.
"With a view to enter into solar power generation in a big way, the Board of Directors has accorded in-principle approval for establishing solar power projects in Telangana, Tamil Nadu and other States in India," NLC Chairman and MD B Surender Mohan said at the company's AGM.
The Board gave its approval for participating in solar power parks announced by various state governments.
Referring to the company's status on some of the solar projects, he said, "the company was implementing a 10 MW solar photovoltaic project at Neyveli at an estimated cost of Rs 77.89 crore and the plant was ready for commissioning."

"The work order had been placed on BHEL for setting up the 10 MW solar power plant. Erection of all 48,000 solar PV modules has been completed. The solar power test charging was completed on August 14. The 10MW solar plant is ready for commissioning," he added.
Approval was also given for setting up a 25 MW solar power project at Barsingsar in Rajasthan at an investment of Rs 167.29 crore. The project is proposed to be implemented through EPC route and scheduled to be commissioned in 2016-17, he said.

The Board also accorded approval for taking Advance Action Proposal of Rs 56.52 crore for taking up pre-project activities related to 4,000 MW thermal power project at Sirkali in Nagapattinam district in Tamil Nadu.

NLC is setting up the project at Sirkali in two phases at an investment of Rs 14,482 crore for phase one of 1,980 MW.
The company has identified Thirumullaivasal as the site to locate the plant and the feasibility report was being prepared, he said, adding the company has approached the state government for land acquisition.