NLC India commences biomass co-firing operation at NTPL, Tuticorin

NLC India Limited (NLCIL) has embarked on a significant journey towards sustainable thermal power generation with the commencement of bio-mass co-firing at its coal-based thermal power station, NLC Tamilnadu Power Limited (NTPL), located in Tuticorin. This initiative, aligned with the Ministry of Power (MoP) guidelines, marks a pivotal step in incorporating eco-friendly practices into the power generation process.

The inauguration of the co-firing operation was led by Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, the Chairman and Managing Director of NLCIL and the Chairman of NTPL. During the inauguration, Motupalli emphasised the substantial benefits and the environmental significance of integrating bio-mass co-firing in thermal power stations. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for earning carbon credits through this sustainable practice.

The innovative approach involves pelletizing stubble waste, which would otherwise be burned without any productive use. These pellets are then blended with coal for combustion in the thermal power station. The outcome is a reduction in coal consumption, addressing environmental concerns while repurposing biomass waste efficiently.

NLCIL's commitment to advancing sustainable practices was further demonstrated through a one-day Regional Level Workshop held at Neyveli on "Use of Biomass for Co-firing in Thermal Power Plants." The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including power plant operators, policy makers, experts, and pellet manufacturers. The insights gathered from the workshop played a crucial role in realising the concept of co-firing at the Tuticorin power station.

The implementation of bio-mass co-firing is anticipated to yield multiple benefits, including a significant reduction in biomass waste and a corresponding decrease in coal consumption within thermal power stations. This strategic move not only addresses environmental concerns but also contributes to effective agriculture waste management in the country.

As NLCIL pioneers sustainable practices in the power generation sector, the bio-mass co-firing initiative at NTPL, Tuticorin, stands as a testament to the company's commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation in the pursuit of cleaner and more efficient energy solutions.