Question : AUSC Technology based Thermal Power Plants

(a) whether the Research and Development project for development of Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) Technology based Thermal Power Plants, Phase-1 has been completed as proposed initially;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the funds sanctioned and released for the completion of entire Phase-1;

(c) the details regarding the proposed timeline for Phase-2;

(d) whether there is any proposal to discontinue the said project and if so, the reasons therefor; and

(e) if not, whether any funds have been approved for the same during the last two years and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR POWER, NEW & RENEWABLE ENERGY AND THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

(SHRI R.K. SINGH)

(a) & (b) : The sponsoring agency for the Research and Development (R&D) phase of the Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) Technology is Department of Heavy Industries (DHI). The Phase-I (R&D phase) was scheduled to conclude in September, 2019 but has experienced certain delays and has been completed in December, 2020. A total of Rs. 900 crores as grant was approved by the Government through DHI. The projected expenditure is Rs. 897 crores and the financial closure for the project is targeted by end March, 2021.

(c) to (e) : The phase-II of the AUSC project envisages setting up of a full scale 800 MW Technology Demonstration Plant (TDP) to establish AUSC technology for the coal fired thermal power plants. The timeline envisaged for the TDP is 54 months from the date of approval of the project. The financing options for the Phase-II of the AUSC project would be worked out in consultation with the Stakeholder Ministries/ Organisations.
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