NTPC Limited has announced the successful trial operation of Unit-3 (660 MW) at its North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Project (NKSTPP) in Chatra district, Jharkhand. This achievement marks a significant step towards the full operationalisation of the 1,980 MW plant, which is being developed in three phases, each comprising a 660 MW unit.
The trial operation of Unit-3 was completed on March 19, 2025, at 2:43 AM, following successful synchronization. With this addition, NTPC’s total installed capacity has increased to 60,266 MW on a standalone basis and 81,368 MW on a group basis. The unit has now been officially included in NTPC’s installed capacity, reflecting the company’s continued expansion in power generation across India.. Strategically located in Chatra district, the North Karanpura plant is a pit-head project situated approximately 10 km from the coal source. This proximity ensures efficient fuel supply and reduces transportation costs, contributing to the overall economic viability of the project. The plant is designed to supply power to the states of Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, and Sikkim, thereby ensuring a 24×7 availability of reliable and affordable electricity for the eastern region of India.
One of the key features of the North Karanpura plant is its incorporation of India’s first supercritical thermal power technology with an Air Cooled Condenser (ACC) of such large magnitude. This innovative design reduces water consumption to one-third compared to conventional water-cooled condensers, resulting in significant water savings. The plant is expected to save approximately 30.5 million cubic meters of water annually, fulfilling the needs of around 1.5 million people in the region. The successful trial operation of Unit-3 underscores NTPC’s commitment to sustainable and efficient power generation. The company’s focus on adopting advanced technologies and implementing water conservation measures aligns with its broader objectives of promoting environmental sustainability and ensuring energy security for the nation.
With the completion of the trial operation of Unit-3, NTPC is poised to enhance its capacity to supply reliable, efficient, and sustainable power to millions of consumers. This milestone reinforces NTPC’s position as a leading contributor to India’s energy sector and underscores its role in supporting the nation’s economic growth and development. As NTPC continues to advance its power generation capabilities, the successful trial operation of Unit-3 at North Karanpura serves as a testament to the company’s dedication to meeting the growing energy demands of the country while prioritising environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
Also Read :Arunachal CM Unveils Rs 2000 Cr Power Upgrade
