The Pegadapalli Power Station: An Overview
The Pegadapalli (Jaipur Mandal) power station, also known as the Adilabad power station or Jaipur power station, is a formidable coal-fired power plant located in the Adilabad district of Telangana, India. Owned and operated by the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), this power station plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the Telangana state.
With a total installed capacity of 1,200 megawatts (MW), the Pegadapalli power station is a significant contributor to the region’s electricity supply. The power station consists of two operational units, each with a capacity of 600 MW, which were commissioned in 2016. Additionally, the company has plans to expand the facility by adding a third unit with an estimated capacity of 800 MW, further strengthening Telangana’s energy security.
The Evolution of the Pegadapalli Power Station
The Pegadapalli power station project was initially proposed by SCCL in 2009 as a 600 MW (2 x 300 MW) power plant. However, in 2010, the project was revised and expanded to a 1,200 MW (2 x 600 MW) facility, with the first unit synchronizing in March 2016 and the second unit commencing commercial operations in November 2016.
The expansion plans for the power station continued to evolve over the years. In 2015, SCCL submitted an application to add a third unit of 600 MW, which was later revised to an 800 MW unit in 2018. The terms of reference for the revised 800 MW unit were approved in May 2018, and the environmental clearance was granted in December 2019.
As of 2023, the detailed project report (DPR) for the 800 MW expansion unit has been approved by the SCCL Board of Directors, and the company plans to float tenders for the project in January 2023, with construction expected to begin in March 2023.
Sourcing Coal for Sustainable Power Generation
The Pegadapalli power station is designed to utilize coal sourced from the proposed Naini coal mine located in Odisha, which is expected to commence production in 2020-21. This strategic choice of fuel source aims to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply of coal for the power station, reducing the reliance on long-distance transportation and potentially improving the overall carbon footprint of the facility.
SCCL’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the coal sourcing strategy. The company has also outlined plans to set up 800 MW of solar power projects in Telangana, including 500 MW of floating solar capacity across its reservoir and other water bodies. This diversification of energy sources demonstrates the company’s efforts to integrate renewable energy solutions and reduce the environmental impact of its operations.
Community Engagement and Environmental Considerations
The development of the Pegadapalli power station has not been without its challenges. In 2018, villagers who were slated to be displaced by the project staged a protest on the National Highway-63, demanding jobs for the displaced individuals. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the pollution and ash generated by the power plant, leading the Ministry of Environment and Forests to plan a site visit to address these issues.
SCCL has acknowledged these community concerns and has reportedly faced criticism for not providing the promised employment opportunities to the displaced villagers. The company has also faced scrutiny regarding the environmental impact of the power station, including the pollution and ash management challenges.
To address these concerns, the Telangana Pollution Control Board held a public hearing in 2018, where 31 villagers voiced their concerns about the power station’s impact on the local community and the environment. The company has since worked to address these issues and enhance its engagement with the affected communities.
Balancing Energy Needs and Environmental Sustainability
The Pegadapalli power station plays a crucial role in meeting Telangana’s growing energy demands, but it also highlights the delicate balance between energy security and environmental sustainability. As the state continues to grapple with power shortages, the expansion of the Pegadapalli facility becomes increasingly important.
However, the project’s environmental and social impacts cannot be overlooked. The company’s efforts to diversify its energy portfolio by investing in solar power projects demonstrate a commitment to exploring more sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, the ongoing engagement with affected communities and the mitigation of environmental concerns are essential steps in ensuring the power station’s long-term viability and acceptance within the local context.
As the Pegadapalli power station evolves, it will be crucial for SCCL to maintain a transparent and collaborative approach, addressing the concerns of the local community and maintaining a strong focus on environmental stewardship. By striking the right balance between energy needs and sustainability, the Pegadapalli power station can serve as a model for the region, showcasing the potential for coal-fired power plants to coexist with the growing demand for renewable energy and environmental protection.
Conclusion
The Pegadapalli (Jaipur Mandal) power station is a significant asset in Telangana’s energy landscape, contributing to the state’s power supply and economic development. As the company moves forward with its expansion plans, it must continue to prioritize community engagement, environmental sustainability, and responsible resource management.
By addressing the concerns of affected communities, mitigating the environmental impact of its operations, and exploring innovative renewable energy solutions, the Pegadapalli power station can demonstrate the potential for coal-fired power plants to evolve and align with the broader goals of sustainability and inclusive development. As a seasoned expert in the water and sanitation sector, I encourage the readers of the Joint Action for Water blog to stay informed about the ongoing progress and challenges faced by this critical power facility, as it serves as an important case study in the complex interplay between energy, community, and the environment.
