NTPC Kayamkulam to launch methanol-based power generation in India

by Psu Connect
Date: 20-09-24
Ministry of Power

The Phase 1 “test firing” will last for a year. If successful, methanol usage could reduce power generation costs, support a circular carbon economy, and lower emissions.

NTPC Kayamkulam to launch methanol-based power generation in India

The Rajiv Gandhi Combined Cycle Power Project (NTPC Kayamkulam) is planning to initiate a pilot project aimed at generating electricity using methanol. This initiative is a first of its kind in India. Recently, NTPC signed a memorandum of understanding with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited to showcase methanol firing in the plant's current gas turbine system.

Methanol is a clean-burning fuel that produces fewer harmful emissions than traditional fuels. The Phase 1 “test firing” will last for a year. If successful, methanol usage could reduce power generation costs, support a circular carbon economy, and lower emissions.

“Experimental electricity production using methanol is expected to begin before the end of this year. While a few countries have successfully used methanol for power generation with gas turbines, this is the first such initiative in India. The test firing will continue for 12 months,” says an NTPC official.

The pilot project will be implemented in two phases. In Phase 1, methanol firing is planned at 40% to 50% of the turbine system’s load. “Based on the test results of Phase 1, necessary modifications will be made to enable 100% load operation,” the official adds.

The NTPC initiated the project as part of its efforts to explore alternative fuel options that can optimize the use of existing gas infrastructure, facilitate renewable energy integration, and reduce carbon emissions.

Officials state that methanol can be produced domestically, which could help overcome challenges related to gas availability and expensive imports. According to the NTPC website, the technology may be considered for implementation in other NTPC gas turbines based on its "techno-commercial viability and the results of the demonstration project."