NTPC Ltd.

NTPC, the largest power producer in Asia, is interested in picking up 74% stake in the West Bengal government’s proposed 16,000-crore greenfield Katwa power project in Burdwan district. The 3,200-mw project is promoted by the state power utility, West Bengal Power Development Corporation (WBPDCL), which will retain balance 26% in the project.

WBPDCL, which has already acquired land for the project, initially planned to develop it on its own but later decided to involve a national player. It first approached state-run power equipment manufacturer Bhel to set up and manage the facility. But the joint venture with Bhel did not take off because Bhel wanted to exit the project after its commissioning.