THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR/IB THERMAL, MAY 23, 2026

Odisha Power Generation Corporation (OPGC) has successfully completed the major Renovation and Modernization (R&M) works of its Stage-I power generation units at the IB Thermal Power Station, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Odisha’s long-term energy infrastructure and power security.

The company announced that Unit-1 of the Stage-I (2x210 MW) plant was officially synchronized with the grid on May 1, 2026, following the completion of the extensive overhaul programme. According to company officials, the unit is currently operating at full load capacity with substantially improved operational performance. The R&M works of Unit-2 had already been completed in March 2025.

The Stage-I facility at the IB Thermal Power Station comprises two 210 MW generating units that were originally commissioned in 1994 and 1996 respectively. After delivering more than three decades of continuous service, the aging units required critical engineering interventions to ensure sustained efficiency, reliability and long-term operational viability.

The comprehensive modernization exercise was carried out with the formal consent of the power off-taker and regulatory approval from the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC). The project involved large-scale replacement of key components and significant technology upgrades across major systems of the plant.

Major R&M works included replacement and refurbishment of Steam Turbine HP and IP modules along with replacement of the last three stages of LP Turbine blades, replacement of Air Pre-Heaters, extensive inspection and repair of boilers and their core auxiliaries, electrical and control system upgrades to address obsolescence, and major hardware replacement across Electrostatic Precipitators (ESP) and flue gas duct systems.

In a major boost to the project’s long-term viability, the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the Stage-I units has also been extended by an additional 15 years. The agreement, which was originally scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026, will now remain in force till June 30, 2041.

The extension is expected to ensure continued grid stability and reliable power supply for Odisha over the next two decades, while also reinforcing the state’s growing industrial and economic development requirements.

OPGC currently has a total installed generation capacity of 1,740 MW and is meeting nearly one-third of Odisha’s total energy demand, making it one of the state’s most critical power generation utilities.