India’s first 800-MW advanced ultra-supercritical (AUSC) technology-based thermal power plant is set to be established in Korba, Chhattisgarh. This innovative plant, a collaboration between NTPC and BHEL, marks a forward  step in adopting high-efficiency indigenous technology in the power sector. The Korba site was selected after extensive scouting and is already home to NTPC’s 2,600-MW power unit.

Feasibility studies are currently underway, and initial estimates peg the project cost at approx. Rs 15,000 crore. However, the final cost will be determined post-feasibility assessment. The development of this plant is supported by the government, which announced fiscal incentives in its budget to promote AUSC technology. Indigenous development of this advanced technology is an endeavour of NTPC, BHEL, and the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research.

This plant will feature a thermal efficiency of 46 percent, a substantial improvement over the 41-42 percent efficiency of existing supercritical units and 38 percent of subcritical ones, aligning with India’s focus on enhancing power generation capabilities while reducing carbon emissions.

A final approval from the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Heavy Industries is expected once the feasibility report is submitted. The advanced AUSC technology is expected to reduce coal consumption and emissions per unit of electricity generated while promoting the use of homegrown technological advancements.