ONGC Tripura Asset has set a goal to boost its natural gas production to 4 MMSCMD within the next year to cater to the rising demand, a senior official announced on Friday.
At present, the company is producing 3.5 MMSCMD of gas and supplying three major gas-based power plants, including OTPC in Tripura’s Gomati district.
“We are currently producing 3.5 MMSCMD annually to support power plants in the state. Our target is to raise production to 4 MMSCMD within a year,” said ONGC Chief General Manager Roopesh Kumar Sharan at a press conference.
He highlighted that ONGC Tripura Asset operates 95 gas-producing wells and explores 17-18 wells annually in search of new reserves.
“The success rate of exploration in the northeastern region is around 50 percent, which aligns with the national average,” he added. At present, seven drilling rigs are deployed to locate new gas sources.
Addressing concerns over reduced gas supply to the OTPC-run Palatana power plant, Sharan confirmed that the supply had been increased. The 726 MW plant had reduced its power generation to 400 MW due to certain issues, with approximately 100 MW being exported to Bangladesh.
Regarding the IndraDhanush Gas Grid (IGGL), Sharan stated that Tripura is expected to be connected by September next year.
“Once the state is linked to IGGL, there will be no difficulties in meeting gas requirements for power generation or industrial use,” he assured.