THDC India Limited Achieves Major Milestone with Commercial Operation of Unit #1 of Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant

Khurja: THDC India Limited (THDCIL), a Mini-Ratna Public Sector Enterprise, has achieved a historic milestone with the declaration of the Commercial Operation Date (COD) of Unit #1 (660 MW) of the 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant (KSTPP). The announcement was made by R.K. Vishnoi, CMD of THDCIL, marking a significant step in the company’s transition from hydropower to thermal power, furthering its contributions to India’s energy self-reliance and sustainable development.

Speaking about the achievement, Vishnoi stated, “This is a proud moment for THDCIL as we embark on a new chapter in our journey, demonstrating our excellence and expertise in the thermal power sector. With the successful commissioning of this unit, THDCIL is poised to play an even more prominent role in powering the nation’s growth and contributing to its sustainable energy future.”

The foundation stone of the Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant was laid by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, and the project has now achieved synchronization with the grid, full load testing (660 MW), and a successful 72-hour trial run at full load. The COD declaration signifies that the plant has passed all necessary tests and inspections, meets performance standards, and is now officially capable of generating and supplying electricity to the grid.

A highlight of the project is the integration of a state-of-the-art Flue Gas De-sulphurization (FGD) system to control emissions, particularly targeting the removal of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) from flue gases. This system, completed in record time, reduces the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels and improves air quality, reflecting THDCIL’s commitment to sustainable development.

Bhupender Gupta, Director (Technical), praised the team’s efforts and emphasized the project’s importance, stating, “The integration of the FGD system showcases our dedication to mitigating environmental challenges while achieving operational excellence.”

With Unit #1 operational, KSTPP will supply reliable electricity to Uttar Pradesh (64.7%), Rajasthan (21.3%), Uttarakhand (3.9%), and unallocated regions (10.1%). This milestone ensures the plant’s full integration into the grid, supporting stability and continuous power supply across the regions.

Shallinder Singh, Director (Personnel), commended the collective efforts of the team, stating, “This achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and teamwork of everyone involved. It is a proud moment as we continue to play an integral role in India’s energy progress.”

From a financial perspective, Sipan Kumar Garg, Director (Finance), highlighted the strategic importance of this milestone, noting, “The successful execution of this complex project reinforces our focus on financial discipline and sustainable investments. This achievement strengthens THDCIL’s financial position while bolstering India’s energy infrastructure, creating long-term benefits for the nation’s economic growth and energy security.”

In addition to the 1320 MW Khurja Super Thermal Power Plant, THDCIL is actively working on other significant projects, including the 1000 MW Tehri Pumped Storage Plant and the 444 MW Vishnugad Pipalkoti Hydro Electric Project. As a holding company of NTPC Limited, India’s largest power utility, THDCIL is committed to driving innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.

The event was attended by several dignitaries and team members, including Kumar Sharad, ED (Project), and senior officials such as B.K. Sahoo (GM, O&M), R.M. Dubey (GM, Electrical), and others. The leadership and team members celebrated this landmark achievement, reiterating their commitment to advancing India’s energy landscape.