NTPC's 765 KV switchyard commissioned in Chhattisgarh

Sipat, Chhattisgarh, Jan 20 (UNI) Union Energy Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde today commissioned country's first 765 KV switchyard, a modern technology system that offers high capacity power transmission with lower losses.

The technology has been introduced by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) at an estimated cost of Rs 16 crore, as part of its upcoming 2980 MW Sipat Thermal Power Station (STPP).

According to NTPC Chairman-cum-Managing Director T Shankaralingam, presently India has transmission systems working at 400 KV level.

Considering large capacity addition planned in near future, 765 KV voltage is considered as next AC transmission voltage for the country.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Shinde said NTPC has been accorded sanction to set up two more units at Sipat. After completion of these units, Sipat will become the highest power producing station in the country. He said work of power stations to be set up at Akaltara and Lara would also begin soon.

Responding to Chief Minister Raman Singh's request to restore supply of 300 MW of power which has been reduced from the state's quota, the Union Minister assured that 300 MW of power, produced by the Sipat thermal power plant, would be allocated to the state.

Once Akaltara and Lara plants are commissioned, the state will get an additional 1600 MW power, he added.

Vidhan Sabha Deputy Speaker Badridhar Diwan, BJP MP Ms Karuna Shukla and Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee President Charandas Mahant were among those present.

UNI