NTPC invites EOI for flexible thermal power solutions to support renewable energy integration
New Delhi, June 5
State-run power major NTPC has invited an Expression of Interest for flexible thermal power units capable of operating at low technical loads and supporting grid-balancing requirements, as India increases the share of renewable energy in its power mix.
The company has sought proposals for sub-critical thermal power units in the 150-250 MW range that can operate in two shifts and run at a minimum technical load of 25 per cent.
"NTPC has invited an Expression of Interest for sub-critical thermal power units in the 150-250 MW range capable of two-shift operation and operation at a minimum technical load of 25%," the company said in a statement.
Through the initiative, NTPC aims to identify technology providers and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) partners for developing highly flexible thermal generation solutions.
"Through this initiative, NTPC aims to identify technology providers and EPC partners for developing highly flexible thermal generation solutions, reinforcing its commitment to grid reliability, stability and India's evolving energy transition needs," the statement said.
The company said the move comes as India's rapid renewable energy expansion is increasing the need for power sources that can quickly respond to changing grid conditions.
"India's rapid expansion of renewable capacity is transforming the power sector and advancing the country's clean energy ambitions. However, the growing share of renewable generation is also increasing the need for flexible power sources that can quickly respond to changing grid conditions," NTPC said.
NTPC noted that thermal power plants continue to play a critical role in providing grid-balancing support, given the limited availability of hydro power, gas-based generation and large-scale energy storage systems.
According to NTPC, its entire thermal fleet is already operating at a technical minimum load of 55 per cent during periods of low demand. The company said all its stations are participating in ancillary services, including Automatic Generation Control (AGC), Primary Frequency Response (PFR), Tertiary Reserve Ancillary Services (TRAS), Security Constrained Economic Dispatch (SCED) and Security Constrained Unit Commitment (SCUC).
NTPC also said its operational experience suggests that sub-critical thermal units may offer greater flexibility than supercritical and ultra-supercritical technologies for certain grid-balancing requirements because of lower parameter swings and reduced fatigue.
The company added that the ability of such units to operate efficiently at lower loads and adapt to frequent cycling could help facilitate higher renewable energy integration in the future.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very interesting that they're specifically looking at sub-critical units (150-250 MW) for this flexible role. I read somewhere that these smaller units can ramp up/down faster than giant supercritical ones. Makes sense for grid balancing. But I hope NTPC also considers environmental costs - running thermal plants at low loads often means higher emissions per unit of electricity. Need thorough cost-benefit analysis.
NTPC saying sub-critical units "offer greater flexibility than supercritical" - that's an important technical insight! It shows the real-world experience of plant operators matters more than just theoretical efficiency. But honestly, shouldn't we be accelerating hydro storage and pumped storage projects instead of prolonging thermal plants? Looks like a pragmatists's approach - thermal will be needed for another decade at least.
As someone who's seen our power sector evolve over the years, this is a practical step. India cannot just switch to 100% renewables overnight - we need baseload and flexible power. Hydro is limited, gas is expensive, storage is still costly. So thermal has to do the heavy lifting for grid stability. Two-shift operation at 25% load is ambitious but necessary. Hope the EOI gets good international responses! 🏭🔋
Good initiative, but I'm skeptical about the 25% technical minimum load claim. Operating thermal plants at such low loads can cause serious equipment stress, slagging issues, and efficiency penalties. I've seen plants struggle at 40% in our country. The EOI should focus on proven technologies, not experimental ones. Our grid reliability cannot be compromised for theoretical flexibility. Ground reality matters more than press releases.
R < We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.