Author: Bihar Say | Amrita |

SJVN Expands Bihar’s Energy Horizon with a Massive Coal Project Expansion

Bihar is set to witness a major power boost as SJVN Ltd., a leading energy company, takes a bold step to expand its coal-based power project in Buxar. This move will not only strengthen the state’s energy infrastructure but also help meet India’s growing electricity demand.

Buxar Power Plant Expansion: A Game-Changer for Bihar

SJVN is currently developing a 1,320 MW coal-fired power plant in Buxar. However, with rising energy demands, the company has decided to increase its capacity by 800 MW, bringing the total to 2,120 MW. This decision marks a significant shift for SJVN, which primarily focuses on hydropower. Chairman Raj Kumar Chaudhary highlighted that this expansion aligns with India’s long-term energy goals.

India’s Soaring Power Demand: The Need for More Capacity

India’s peak power demand hit a record 250 gigawatts (GW) in 2024, and projections suggest it could rise to 384 GW by 2032. To tackle this, the government is planning to add more than 80 GW of coal-fired capacity. Although India is making strides in renewable energy, thermal power plants remain essential for ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply.

Why SJVN is Investing in Thermal Power

SJVN has been a dominant player in hydropower, but diversifying into coal-fired projects allows the company to meet immediate energy needs faster. Thermal plants take less time to build and can provide a steady power supply, making them crucial for economic growth. With this expansion, SJVN is set to play a bigger role in India’s power sector.

Project Timeline: What to Expect Next

The first 660 MW unit of the Buxar project is expected to start operations by May 2025, followed by the second unit by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, discussions are underway with the Bihar state government regarding the distribution of the additional 800 MW capacity. SJVN aims to finalize investment plans and construction timelines soon, ensuring a swift execution of this ambitious expansion.

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