Karnataka’s First Gas-Based Power Plant Yelahanka CCPP To Be Commissioned On 24 September
KPCL is implementing the project through its 100 per cent subsidiary, KPC Gas Power Corporation
The Yelahanka Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP), Karnataka’s first gas-based power plant with a capacity of 370 MW, is set to be commissioned on 24 September 2024, according to state’s Energy Minister KJ George. Located in Yelahanka, this plant represents a significant step in the state’s energy infrastructure development.
At a progress review meeting held recently, it was confirmed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will officially inaugurate the plant. The event will also be attended by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Yelahanka Constituency MLA SR Vishwanath, and other dignitaries. The plant, established by Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), will produce 236.825 MW through a gas turbine generator and 133.225 MW via a steam turbine generator, combining for a total capacity of 370.05 MW. The pilot production process of the combined cycle has already been completed successfully.
George highlighted the significance of the project, saying, “This is an important project for our government and KPCL. It is a matter of pride that a government organisation produces gas-based electricity for the first time in the state.” He also reflected on the project's history, noting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had laid the foundation stone in 2016 and will now see it inaugurated, demonstrating the government’s commitment to power generation. George credited Siddaramaiah’s leadership for bringing the project to completion.
At a curtain-raiser event, Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta underscored the Congress government’s achievements in expanding the state’s energy capacity. Gupta pointed out that the previous administration had not initiated any new gas plants, while this plant showcases the current government's focus on enhancing reliability and managing the power supply effectively. The Yelahanka plant is seen as a step towards a sustainable energy future and a demonstration of the government’s commitment to ensuring reliable power for all.
KPCL is implementing the project through its 100 per cent subsidiary, KPC Gas Power Corporation. Senior officials, including Gaurav Gupta, Energy Department Additional Chief Secretary, KPTCL Managing Director Pankaj Kumar Pandey, BESCOM Managing Director Mahantesh Bilagi, and KPCL Finance Director R. Nagaraj, attended the event.
The Yelahanka Combined Cycle Power Plant was approved by the Karnataka government, with BHEL contracted as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor. The plant’s construction and operation followed a carefully coordinated timeline, beginning with the initiation of gas supply by GAIL in February 2024. The gas turbine was first cranked on 3 March, followed by its synchronisation with the grid on 9 March. By 30 May, the steam turbine was ready, and by 8 August, the combined cycle plant achieved full load operation, generating 370 MW continuously for 20 hours.
Key milestones included gas turbine testing, combined cycle operation, and full-load testing of both the gas and steam turbines, highlighting the successful integration of the two systems. The plant’s capacity stands at 370 MW, with a project cost of Rs 2,500 crore. It will generate an estimated 2,755 million units annually at an 85 per cent plant load factor, with a tariff set at Rs 8 per kWh.
The project employs advanced combined cycle technology, using liquefied natural gas supplied by Gail, and is expected to be a crucial asset in Karnataka’s energy landscape.
