NTPC adds 490 MW to power the Commonwealth Games

NEW DELHI - State-run power utility NTPC has added 490 MW, commissioning the second unit of its Dadri plant near here, to power the 2010 Commonwealth Games, beginning Oct 3.

“NTPC has kept its promise to power the Commonwealth Games by bringing on stream the second unit of 490 MW at the Dadri project,” a company official told IANS.

NTPC, official power partner of the Games, began commercial operation of its second coal-based power unit in the second stage of the Dadri project on July 17.

The Games-specific second stage of the three-in-one power plant at Dadri runs on two coal-based power units. Both the units have an installed capacity to generate 490 MW each.

“The power output of this stage is especially meant for the national capital which will get 100 percent of the total power for the Commonwealth Games,” said the official.

In December 2009, NTPC had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the organising committee of the Games.

As per the MoU, NTPC will add around 1,500 MW of power from its Dadri (980 MW) and Jhajjar (500 MW) projects in time for the Games.

NTPC has contributed Rs.50 crore for the Games as well.

The company plans to use the Games as a platform to enhance its brand value as a world class integrated power major.

“NTPC’s vision to be a world class integrated power major and power India’s growth match with that of the Commonwealth Games (which denotes vitality, health and achievement). This association shall provide NTPC visibility across the country and the globe,” said R.S Sharma, chairman and managing director.

NTPC operates 27 power stations across the country. It has over 17,000 MW capacity under construction at 17 locations.

It plans to become a 75 GW (gigawatt) company by 2017.

(Rohit Vaid can be contacted at rohit.v@ians.in)