Agartala, Nov 11 — In a major step toward enhancing power generation efficiency, the Tripura government will soon introduce Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) technology at the Rukhia Power Plant in Sepahijala district, increasing its capacity by 120 megawatts (MW). The foundation stone and Bhumi Pujan for the project will be held on November 26, Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced on Monday.
Nath, who also holds the Agriculture portfolio, said the initiative aims to address the state’s power demands amid a persistent natural gas shortage. “In 2017–18, the installed capacity of the Rukhia Power Plant was 63 MW, but actual generation was only 40 MW. Despite the gas crisis, we later managed to produce up to 56 MW. However, the plant was shut down in 2022–23 due to pending environmental clearance,” he said. The issue, he added, has now been resolved following intervention with central authorities.
Highlighting the advantages of the new system, Nath explained that the CCGT technology will allow the plant to generate 120 MW using the same volume of gas. “Although gas prices remain high globally, this technology will ensure maximum efficiency and sustainability,” he noted. The project is estimated to cost ₹1,119 crore, excluding GST.
The minister also emphasized the state’s focus on diversifying its energy portfolio. “Since natural gas is a depleting resource, we are simultaneously giving thrust to solar energy,” he said.
Tripura, currently an electricity-surplus state in the Northeast, supplies over 100 MW of power to Bangladesh through the ONGC Tripura Power Company (OTPC) plant in Gomati district. The state also plans to export electricity to Nepal, with discussions held recently in New Delhi. A final decision on the proposed cross-border supply is expected from the Central government soon.
