Archive · 24 Jan 2026
Rajasthan's Energy Shift: Coal Expansion Uncertain
NTPC and RVUNL had a plan to expand the Chhabra Thermal Power Plant in Rajasthan by adding 1,320 MW of capacity.
However, the agreement between them is likely to be canceled because of some big problems.
These problems include getting the necessary approvals, arranging for coal, and deciding who will manage the project.
The regulators think that just having an agreement isn't enough to guarantee that the project will actually happen.
This makes the future of the expansion uncertain.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan is focusing more on renewable energy.
A new transmission line in Fatehgarh will help move more solar power, reducing the need to cut off renewable energy during peak times.
This shows Rajasthan is shifting towards cleaner energy sources.
NTPC and RVUNL's MoU for expanding Chhabra Thermal Power Plant is likely to be canceled due to critical issues.
The expansion aimed to add 1,320 MW of coal-based capacity to the existing 2,320 MW plant.
Regulatory concerns include unresolved approvals, fuel transfer arrangements, and coal logistics.
The EAC resolved that MoU-based projects should not be automatically considered as assured capacity.
Rajasthan is reassessing its thermal power strategy while pushing for renewable energy, with a new transmission line in Fatehgarh expected to ease RE curtailment.
- Who
- NTPC, Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (RVUNL), Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
- What
- Proposed expansion of Chhabra Thermal Power Plant and commissioning of transmission lines for renewable energy
- When
- MoU reviewed in August 2025; transmission line in Fatehgarh to be commissioned within a month
- Where
- Chhabra, Rajasthan; Bhadla, Ramgarh, Fatehgarh Solar Power Complex
- Why
- Persisting critical issues including regulatory approvals, fuel transfer, and governance for coal expansion; mismatch between renewable project commissioning and transmission infrastructure development
Coal Expansion
Renewable Energy Focus
Energy Strategy
Coal Expansion
Expanding coal-based power capacity to meet energy demands.
Renewable Energy Focus
Focusing on renewable energy to reduce reliance on coal and address environmental concerns.
- Project Value
- ₹15,000 crore
- Proposed Capacity
- 1,320 MW
- Location
- Chhabra, Rajasthan
- Current Capacity
- 2,320 MW
- Key Stakeholders
- NTPC, RVUNL
- Regulatory Body
- Energy Assessment Committee (EAC)
- Key Issues
- Regulatory approvals, fuel transfer, coal logistics, governance
- Transmission Line Capacity
- 1,100 MW
- RE Zones
- Bhadla, Ramgarh, Fatehgarh Solar Power Complex
- RE Curtailment
- 4 GW capacity earlier without connectivity
