Orissa to generate 1,000 MW more power by 2009 end

Power-surplus Orissa hopes to add about 1,000 MW to its existing generation of 3,000 MW in the next one year as at least two of the 13 independent power producers (IPPs) are to start production by the end of 2009.

"We are hopeful of adding at least 900 MW by the end of 2009," Energy Secretary Suresh Chandra Mohapatra told reporters today after Chief Secretary Ajit Kumar Tripathy reviewed the progress made in implementing IPP projects.

According to Mohapatra, Sterlite Energy and Bhusan Energy are expected to commission the first phases of their projects by the end of next year.

 

Bhusan Energy, which plans to set up a 2,000 MW thermal power plant in Angul district with an investment of about Rs 8,000 crore, would commission its first phase as soon as land was available, Assistant Vice-President (Commercial) Sanjeev Kapoor said after the meeting.

"Since the company already has experience in setting up a steel plant in the state, it can expedite the power plant without much difficulty," Kapoor said.

Sterlite Energy, which has proposed to set up a 2,400 MW thermal power plant in Jharsuguda district, has acquired 705 acres.

Having obtained environment clearance from the Centre and been allotted a coal block at Rampia, first phase production by Sterlite is scheduled for September next year.