The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) recently reviewed and deliberated on the expansion of several major thermal power projects:
Raigarh Thermal Power Plant Expansion
Adani Power Limited proposed expanding the Raigarh Thermal Power Plant in Chhattisgarh by adding 1,600 MW (2×800 MW) Ultra Supercritical units to the existing 600 MW plant.
The project, spanning several villages in Raigarh district, entails a capital cost of Rs 136 billion, with Rs 21.1 billion allocated for environmental protection measures and an annual recurring cost of Rs 218.5 million for the same.
Following detailed deliberations, the committee recommended granting Environmental Clearance under the EIA Notification.
NLC Talabira Thermal Power Project (Phase-II)
NLC India Limited proposed an 800 MW expansion of its Talabira Thermal Power Project in Odisha.
The estimated cost of the proposed phase-II expansion is Rs 71.8 billion, with Rs 14.4 billion dedicated to environmental protection measures and an annual recurring cost of Rs 143.9 million.
However, the committee deferred its decision, requesting additional information from the project proponent.
Buxar Thermal Power Project Expansion
SJVN Thermal Private Limited sought an amendment in the Terms of Reference (ToR) for expanding the Buxar Thermal Power Project in Bihar by revising its proposed capacity from 1×660 MW to 1×800 MW.
The original ToR, granted in March 2024, is now amended to reflect this enhanced capacity.
The committee recommended approval of the amendment.