OPGC completes major renovation of Unit-1 at IB Thermal; PPA extended till 2041
Jharsuguda: Odisha Power Generation Corporation Ltd. (OPGC) has successfully completed the major Renovation and Modernisation (R&M) works of Unit-1 of its Stage-I thermal power units at the IB Thermal Power Station, marking a major milestone in strengthening Odisha’s power infrastructure.
Company officials said Unit-1 was successfully synchronized with the power grid on May 1, 2026, following the completion of the extensive overhaul. The 210 MW unit is currently operating at full load capacity with significantly improved performance levels. The R&M works of Unit-2 had earlier been completed in March 2025.
The Stage-I plant consists of two 210 MW units commissioned in 1994 and 1996 respectively. After over three decades of continuous service, the units underwent critical engineering interventions to enhance efficiency, reliability and long-term sustainability.
Officials stated that the renovation was carried out with the approval of the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (OERC) and the consent of the power off-taker. The modernization involved replacement and refurbishment of major components, including high-pressure and intermediate-pressure turbine modules, replacement of low-pressure turbine blades, air pre-heater replacement, extensive boiler repairs, electrical and control system upgrades, and major hardware replacement across electrostatic precipitators and flue gas ducts.
In another significant development, the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the Stage-I units has been extended by 15 years. The agreement, which was earlier scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026, will now remain valid until June 30, 2041.
The extension is expected to ensure long-term grid stability and uninterrupted power supply to Odisha for the coming years.
At present, OPGC has a total installed generation capacity of 1,740 MW and is meeting nearly one-third of the state’s energy demand.
