Chennai: With the power production through wind has risen in the State touching to about 2,450 MW, the generation in the second unit of the Thoothukudi Thermal Power Station was stopped on Monday.
The production is likely to be resumed immediately after obtaining coal replenishment from the Centre.
The positive indications are that the Coal India Ltd (CIL) has drawn up a plan to send 16 rakes per day to Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) in view of its increased demand for the dry fuel. The state-run-miner's subsidiaries - Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd, Eastern Coalfields Ltd and Central Coalfields Ltd will supply 13 rakes, two rakes and one rake, respectively. The Tangedco had reportedly sought for 20 rakes of coal per day.
The CIL has requested Indian Railways to supply more rakes to ensure delivery of coal to Tangedco.
The State government is likely to import about 30 lakh tons coal for its generation units, supply of which is expected to commence from October.
As on Monday, about 2,450 MW wind energy was generated in the State. Tangedco had received more wind power support from its wind-based generating units, resulting in subdued generation by thermal units in the recent past.
The supply from thermal units dipped to 63 per cent from the level of 83 per cent of prorata contracted quantity during April-July.
Recently, Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking the allocation of 72,000 tons coal to generate electricity in the state.
This means a minimum of 20 rakes of coal are required on a daily basis but Tamil Nadu is receiving only seven to eight rakes per day.
