TN’s first power plant with captive port opened
CHENNAI: Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday inaugurated Unit-1 of the 2x660 MW supercritical thermal power plant, set up by Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation Limited (TNPGCL) at Udangudi in Thoothukudi district, through video conference from the Secretariat in Chennai. The state’s first power project with a dedicated offshore captive port has been rolled out at a cost of Rs 13,077 crore. The plant commenced power generation on Friday.
A unique feature of the project is that coal is transported from a terminal located 9km into the sea via enclosed conveyor belts to the plant, reducing transportation costs and ensuring an environmentally friendly fuel supply.
The power generated from this facility would be integrated into the grid through a 400 kV Gas Insulated Substation. The project would increase the state’s self-generation capacity and reduce the need to purchase power from the open market.
Speaking to TNIE, a senior TNPGCL official said that the plant had completed major technical milestones before being made operational. “Oil synchronisation with the state grid was completed in September 2025, while coal synchronisation was carried out in February this year. Before beginning commercial operations, we must observe all operational parameters, including the turbine, boiler performance and other technical aspects,” he said.
‘Close check for 5 days to ensure plant stability’
Although the plant started generating power on Friday, he added that it would be closely monitored over the next four to five days to ensure stable functioning.
“At present, the unit is generating around 350 MW to 400 MW. The load will be increased gradually as part of the testing process. After stabilising operations, the unit must run continuously for 30 days before commercial operations can begin,” the official added.
The official further said that the first unit of the Udangudi plant has already generated about 127 million units of electricity during the testing phase. The official said the plant currently consumes around 5,000 tonnes of coal per day. “We have a stock of about 50,000 tonnes, which is sufficient for nearly 10 days. Another shipment of coal is expected to arrive by ship in the coming days. Necessary logistical arrangements are being ensured for uninterrupted operation,” the official said.
The project, originally proposed in 2008 during the previous DMK rule, entered into the implementation stage during the AIADMK rule. However, it frequently ran into delays before being expedited for inauguration before the upcoming polls.