Ranchi: Jharkhand will no longer have to rely solely on private and central sector power sources, as the state takes a major step toward energy self-reliance. The first unit of the 4,000 MW Patratu Super Thermal Power Plant has begun generating 800 megawatts of electricity. Operated by Patratu Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (PVUNL), a joint venture between NTPC and Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (JBVNL), the plant marks a key milestone in the state’s power infrastructure.
Power generated from the plant is being supplied through the Katia grid to Hatia-2, Burmu, Lalpania, and PGCIL grids. From Lalpania, electricity is also reaching Govindpur and areas in Santhal Pargana. The first phase of the project includes installation of three units of 800 MW each. With one unit now operational, PVUNL is in the process of obtaining clearance for commercial operation (COD) from the central government. Once COD is granted, JBVNL will begin billing at a rate of ₹2.73 per unit.
The Patratu plant is expected to make a significant contribution to Jharkhand’s power supply and help resolve existing shortages. It is also poised to drive economic growth in the region and generate employment. Out of the total 4,000 MW capacity, Jharkhand will receive between 3,200 and 3,500 MW, which will meet the state’s peak demand of approximately 3,200 MW. From the 800 MW generated by the first unit, 85% is allocated to Jharkhand and 15% to the central pool.
Jharkhand Urja Sancharan Nigam Limited has completed a 6.6 km long 400 kV double circuit transmission line from Patratu to Katia in record time. After receiving forest clearance in January, work was carried out on a war footing, and the line was successfully charged. This line connects Patratu to the Katia grid, enabling supply to Hatia and other locations. The cost of this transmission line stands at ₹64.51 crore.
For fuel supply, PVUNL has been allocated the Banhardih coal block, estimated to contain 1,372.21 million tonnes of coal, of which 270.81 million tonnes are extractable. This allocation ensures a steady coal supply for the plant.
The total cost of the Patratu project is ₹26,000 crore. NTPC holds a 74% stake, while the state government holds 26%. A memorandum of understanding was signed on May 3, 2015, followed by a joint venture agreement on July 29, 2015. Final government approval for the JV came on September 28, 2015.
With its launch, the Patratu plant is set to play a crucial role in Jharkhand’s development by strengthening power infrastructure, reducing dependency on external sources, and promoting industrial and economic growth.