The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) is ramping up its expansion plans, committing to an ambitious target of adding 30 gigawatts (GW) of coal-based power capacity by 2031-32. This marks a significant increase from its previous goal of 26 GW, driven by the nation’s surging energy demands, as indicated by a senior company official who chose to remain anonymous.

Expanding Coal and Renewable Energy Capacity

For the fiscal year 2025-26, NTPC aims to introduce an additional 3 GW of coal power alongside 5 GW from renewable sources. Recent achievements include the addition of 660 megawatts (MW) of thermal power and 3.3 GW of renewable energy capacity in fiscal year 2024-25.

• Projected Peak Demand: The government anticipates that peak electricity requirements could exceed 270 GW this summer.
• Coal Capacity Increase: In response, authorities have announced plans to bolster the coal-based capacity by 80 GW by 2032, while also enhancing the renewable energy mix.

NTPC’s Diversification into Renewables

Over the years, NTPC has strategically diversified its energy portfolio to include renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear energy, along with ventures into green chemicals like ethanol and methanol. The company is set to accelerate its efforts in expanding renewable and nuclear energy capacities, as well as exploring energy storage solutions.

To meet the ambitious target of 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, NTPC plans to commission 30 GW of nuclear power, according to the official.

Nuclear Power Projects Underway

NTPC is currently collaborating with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India to construct nuclear power plants with a total capacity of 2.8 GW. Notable projects include facilities in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Currently, the nation operates 8 GW of nuclear capacity, managed exclusively by the Nuclear Power Corporation.

International Ventures and Collaborations

In an exciting development, NTPC has launched a 50 MW solar project in Sri Lanka through a joint venture with the Ceylon Electricity Board, known as Trincomalee Power Company Limited. The company is also assessing similar renewable energy initiatives in Africa and Saudi Arabia.

• Operations and Maintenance Opportunities: NTPC is exploring potential Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and consultancy projects in Saudi Arabia and Africa, including discussions with Eskom, a prominent electricity utility in South Africa.

Advancing Nuclear Technology and Renewable Projects

Recently, NTPC invited expressions of interest from global entities to collaborate on the localization of pressurized water reactor (PWR) technology and to develop large-capacity nuclear power plants targeting around 15 GW.

In the renewable sector, NTPC Green, the company’s green energy division, has formed a joint venture with ONGC Green to focus on battery energy storage, offshore and onshore wind projects, and green chemical initiatives. This collaboration has successfully acquired a 100% equity stake in Ayana Renewable Power for Rs 6,248.50 crore.

• Renewable Energy Goals: NTPC Green aims to achieve a phased 19 GW renewable energy capacity by 2026-27, with an estimated investment of Rs 1 lakh crore.

Future in Power Distribution

While primarily focused on power generation, NTPC is also actively considering entering the electricity distribution sector, indicating its intent to further expand its footprint in the energy market.

This strategic expansion reflects NTPC’s commitment to addressing the growing energy demands of the country while enhancing its renewable and nuclear energy capabilities for a sustainable future.