Author: PPD Team Date: 11/06/2025
The Ministry of Power (MoP) has approved the establishment of three new 800 MW thermal power plants (TPPs) in Punjab. The decision was announced on June 6, 2025, following a meeting of northern power ministers.
The expansion adds up to 2,400 MW of fresh capacity. Two of the three units will be located at the existing Ropar thermal power site. Punjab had earlier requested an increase in capacity at Ropar, citing its access to domestic coal mines. However, a central restriction on transporting coal beyond 1,000 km had delayed progress.
To resolve this, officials have been directed to extend the coal transportation limit to over 1,500 km. This has cleared the path for the two new units at Ropar and an additional 800 MW unit elsewhere in Punjab.
Another issue raised was the 7,000 MW solar power target set for Punjab. State officials said high land costs in Punjab make large-scale solar projects difficult. The government is now exploring project sites in neighbouring states, where land is more affordable and power can be routed back to Punjab.
The Punjab delegation also requested an immediate allocation of 1,000 MW from the Centre to meet power needs during the paddy season. At present, the state is receiving only 275 MW from the central pool. Timely power is needed to ensure adequate irrigation for paddy farmers.
Lastly, the state flagged delays in upgrading two 100 MVA transformers to 160 MVA at the BBMB Jalandhar substation. Although the Punjab government has secured all approvals and agreed to bear the cost, work has not begun. The state urged the Centre to expedite action so the unit can operate efficiently.