APGenco sets record with 6,009 MW power generation

APGenco achieved a record power generation of 6,009 MW on January 4 following systematic improvement in coal quality, timely financial interventions, and focused maintenance and operational measures at its thermal power plants.

S. Nagalakshmi, Managing Director of APGenco, said in a press release that the utility coordinated closely with coal authorities and transporters to ensure the supply of high Gross Calorific Value coal from Eastern Coalfields to Sri Damodaram Sanjeevaiah Thermal Power Station. She said timely release of funds helped clear pending dues, stabilising coal supplies.

She said the supply of washed coal to high-capacity units at SDSTPS and Dr. Narla Tatarao Thermal Power Station was enhanced through advance payments to washeries. Restoration of electrostatic precipitators at SDSTPS Unit-1 enabled additional generation of about 150 to 200 MW, while priority rectification of fan blades at the eighth unit of NTTPS improved the unit load by around 150 MW.

Ms. Nagalakshmi said coal quality was further improved through coordination with Singareni Collieries, with high and medium GCV coal being supplied to NTTPS and Rayalaseema Thermal Power Plant to support sustained generation. At RTPP, ash plant-related issues were addressed during annual overhauls and high GCV coal was arranged for the 600 MW unit, resulting in better performance. She said coal stocks sufficient for 10 days were currently being maintained at all thermal power stations.

She said APGenco secured a ₹1,000 crore working capital loan from HUDCO at 8.95% interest to clear dues to coal companies and strengthen the fuel supply chain. In addition, capex loans of ₹801 crore for thermal plants and ₹192 crore for hydel plants were obtained from HUDCO at an interest rate of 9% for renovation and modernisation works.

She added that APGenco successfully negotiated with banks for a reduction in interest rates on cash credit and working capital demand loans. State Bank of India and Union Bank of India reduced the rates to 8.70% and 9.05% respectively, resulting in annual savings of about ₹60 crore.