Thiruvananthapuram: NTPC Kayamkulam is set to launch a pilot project aimed at generating electricity using methanol, marking a first for India. The Rajiv Gandhi Combined Cycle Power Project has recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited to implement methanol firing in the plant's existing gas turbine system.

Methanol is a clean-burning fuel known for producing fewer harmful emissions compared to traditional fuels. The initial phase of the project, referred to as “test firing,” is scheduled to last for one year. If successful, this initiative could lower power generation costs, support a circular carbon economy, and reduce emissions.

An NTPC official stated, “Experimental electricity production using methanol is expected to begin before the end of this year. While some countries have successfully used methanol for power generation, this is India's first such initiative. The test firing will continue for 12 months.”

The pilot project will be implemented in two phases. In Phase 1, methanol will be fired at 40% to 50% of the turbine system’s load. Based on the results from this phase, modifications will be made to enable operation at 100% load.

This project is part of NTPC's broader strategy to explore alternative fuel options that can optimise existing gas infrastructure, facilitate renewable energy integration, and lower carbon emissions. Officials noted that methanol can be produced domestically, which may alleviate issues related to gas availability and high import costs. Depending on the project's techno-commercial viability and results, similar technologies may be considered for other NTPC gas turbines in the future. /BI