New Delhi-based power producer NTPC (NSE:NTPC, BOM:532555) is considering using sub-critical coal plants that can operate at as little as 25% capacity to improve grid flexibility so more renewable energy sources can be accommodated, Bloomberg News reported Friday, citing an emailed statement from the company.
The state-run firm is seeking vendors to build units of up to 250 megawatts each. The move comes as insufficient hydropower, gas-fired generation, and battery storage capacity increase dependency on coal-powered plants to balance intermittent renewable power, the report said.
NTPC's thermal fleet already operates at a minimum load of 55% during periods of low demand to help accommodate solar energy, it said.
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