NTPC to Invest ₹17 Lakh Crore in Power Sector Over 10 Years

NTPC Limited, the state-run power generator, has unveiled an ambitious investment plan of ₹17 lakh crore aimed at boosting its energy capacity over the next ten years. Chairman and Managing Director Gurdeep Singh announced this initiative during the India Energy Summit organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce. He emphasized that out of this total investment, ₹7 lakh crore is designated for deployment within the next five years, covering a range of energy technologies including thermal, gas, nuclear, and storage.

The company is particularly focused on expanding its nuclear energy capabilities, targeting the development of 30 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power as part of India's national goal of achieving 100 GW by 2047. NTPC has already submitted three sites for clearance to the Department of Atomic Energy and the Atomic Energy Commission, marking a significant step towards realizing this target. Singh pointed out that the primary challenge in the power sector is not merely the type of fuel used but ensuring a reliable and affordable energy supply amid increasing grid demands.

Singh noted a significant rise in coal-based power generation, which has surged by 18% this month alone. He attributed this increase to various factors, including economic growth, weather conditions related to El Nino, and the rising energy needs of data centers and artificial intelligence systems. He highlighted that the demand for power is evolving, with requirements extending beyond traditional limits, necessitating a focus on energy storage solutions.

As part of its operational strategy, NTPC currently boasts an operational capacity of 91 GW, with an additional 37 GW under construction, of which 17 GW are coal-based projects. The company is also prioritizing non-lithium energy storage technologies to reduce reliance on imports, exploring options such as pumped storage, vanadium flow batteries, and carbon dioxide batteries, with the first CO2 battery set to be commissioned in November.

In terms of partnerships, Singh mentioned NTPC's initiatives to support industrial consumers through a 26% equity participation model, which aims to enhance co-generation efficiencies. He expressed openness to collaborating with industries to renew solar energy plans, which could help lower carbon emissions and power costs, ultimately making the industry more competitive. Additionally, NTPC is working on a hydrogen hub to produce green methanol and ammonia, including a 20-kilometer pipeline under construction at Simhadri for connecting supply with international buyers.