Maharashtra to make fresh appeal for 10,000 mw N-power JV
Sanjay Jog
Posted online: Aug 17, 2009 at 0108 hrs

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government and its undertaking MahaGenco would make a fresh appeal to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) for forming a joint venture with the Nuclear Power Corporation (NPCIL) for its proposed 10,000 mw nuclear project at Jaitapur in Raigad district of the state. The fresh attempt by the state government and MahaGenco, whose installed capacity is over 9,000 mw, comes at a time when the Bombay high court last week has allowed land acquisition by the Nuclear Power Corporation. The project will come up on 900 hectare.

Nuclear Power Corporation has already joined hands with Areva for European Pressurised Water Reactor (EPR) of 1,600 mw. The project entails an investment of around Rs 50,000 crore.

FE had reported on June 25 about the MahaGenco’s desire to acquire upto 49% equity in the project. Maharashtra energy minister Sunil Tatkare told FE on Sunday “I had already discussed the matter earlier with the power ministry for the proposed JV between Nuclear Power Corporation and MahaGenco. Besides, MahaGenco had also taken up the matter with the CEA though so far there is no movement. However, we strongly feel with the Bombay high court order will help Nuclear Power Corporation to expedite the project implementation. Mahagenco will once again take up its proposal for JV with CEA. The project is crucial for Maharahstra which is witnessing a rapid rise in demand for power.”
Sources in the know said Nuclear Power Corporation, which is the midst of completion of techno economic evaluation for 1,600 mw EPRs will complete the land acquisition process and also consider MahaGenco’s proposal.