NTPC Ltd.

Soon after shifting flagship Gadarwara project from Odisha to Madhya Pradesh (MP), Power generator NTPC has secured the environment ministry’s approval for the Rs 11,640-crore power plant. Once commissioned, the project would add 1,600 Mw to the company’s portfolio.

The Gadarwara project, which is likely to be set up in Gajmara district in Odisha, was shifted to Madhya Pradesh (MP) on account of several hurdles related to land acquisition and environment and forest clearances for the site. Currently, NTPC operates two thermal power plants in Odisha, including the 3,000-Mw Talcher Kaniha plant and the 460-Mw Talcher plant.

Further, the project which is likely to be commissioned in four years, requires 1,350 acres. Of this, 318 acres are barren government land and have already been transferred to NTPC. The plant would need eight million tonnes of coal a year, at 90 per cent plant load factor. Additionally, the order for the main plant equipment for the Gadarwara project has already been placed with Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL).