Trial operations have started at the first 660 MW unit of the Udangudi Supercritical Thermal Power Plant in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu. This marks a significant advancement in enhancing the state’s power generation capacity. The project, managed by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) for the Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Corporation (TANGEDCO), includes two 660 MW supercritical units.
The Udangudi project, with an estimated cost of Rs 13,077 crore, was initiated in 2019 to enhance efficiency and ensure a dependable power supply throughout the state. To facilitate a continuous coal supply, TANGEDCO has constructed an offshore coal jetty near Kallamozhi, awaiting operational certifications. This jetty will simplify the transportation of imported coal directly to the plant through a conveyor system.
The first unit is close to completion, with most major components already in place. Engineers have conducted operational tests during the trial phase to assess coordination among various departments involved in power generation. The plant has received over 20,000 tonnes of coal from the Thoothukudi Thermal Power Station to support initial operations, with more than 10,000 tonnes transported to the Udangudi facility’s coal crushing unit.
Power generation during the trial phase averaged around 120 MW, peaking briefly at 200 MW. Following regulatory approvals, Unit 1’s boiler was ignited, and the unit successfully synchronized with the Southern Region power grid. The unit was temporarily shut down after testing to address minor technical issues identified during the process. Construction of the second unit is progressing, with turbine-related installations pending.
With the commissioning of the first unit expected by March and the second by May, the Udangudi plant is set to add 1,320 MW of capacity, significantly enhancing Tamil Nadu’s energy security to meet the rising industrial and domestic demand.
