The Ministry of Power has established an independent panel called the Thermal Project Monitoring Group (TPMG) to assess the progress of ongoing thermal power projects, both in the public and private sectors. This group, chaired by the Member (Thermal) of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), has been given the green light by the Hon’ble Minister of Power and NRE, as per a notification issued on April 2.

In addition to the CEA Member (Thermal), the group consists of a Chief Engineer or higher-ranking officer from the CEA, along with six retired senior officers from CEA, NTPC, or DVC. Additionally, two Deputy Director-level officers from CEA will provide assistance to the group.

This initiative aligns with the government’s ambitious plan to add 93,380 MW of new coal-based thermal power generation capacity by 2031-32. Presently, 26,380 MW is under construction, 11,960 MW has been tendered, and 19,050 MW awaits clearance. Notably, 31,000 MW is in advanced implementation stages, with construction on 17,000 MW set to begin shortly.

The TPMG will conduct site visits to assess the progress of thermal power projects in the central and state sectors, as well as those run by independent power producers. By conducting on-site inspections, the group aims to provide firsthand insights into the progress made by project proponents. Their assessments will be summarized in progress reports submitted to the TPMG.

These reports will be compared with progress updates provided directly by project proponents to the CEA. Based on these evaluations, the CEA will present an accurate overview of project progress.

Moreover, the TPMG will identify challenges faced during implementation and assess the effectiveness of mitigation strategies employed by project proponents. Following each site visit, the group members will submit a progress review report within seven working days. Subsequently, the TPMG will update the Ministry of Power on the progress and timelines of thermal power projects under implementation.