Singareni ready to partner with Karnataka GENCO in captive coal mines: Bhatti
Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has proposed a joint venture between Singareni and KPCL to undertake mining in captive coal blocks secured by Karnataka in Chhattisgarh and Odisha, amid rising power demand and the need for assured supplies.
Hyderabad: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has proposed that Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) and Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) work together as a joint venture (JV) to ensure adequate coal availability amid growing electricity demand.
In view of Karnataka’s rising power requirements, he suggested that KPCL and Singareni jointly undertake mining operations in the captive coal blocks secured by KPCL in Chhattisgarh and Odisha. He said Singareni, with nearly 137 years of experience in coal mining, could undertake mining operations in the blocks.
Bhatti Vikramarka met Karnataka Energy Minister KJ George in Bengaluru on Thursday. The two discussed issues related to the energy sector in both States, including coal supplies, payments for coal purchases and technology exchange. The Deputy Chief Minister said Singareni could also benefit from Karnataka’s extensive experience in the power sector in operating the power plants it proposes to undertake.
“The possibility of establishing a joint venture between Singareni and KPCL, with the participation of the two State-owned enterprises, should be studied,” Bhatti Vikramarka said. He said the objective was to promote mutual cooperation, development and expansion. KJ George responded positively to the proposal.
The two Ministers also discussed coal supplied by Singareni to Karnataka. George said rapid industrial growth in the State had led to a substantial increase in electricity demand. He requested Telangana to ensure uninterrupted coal supplies for thermal power projects in Karnataka.
Responding positively, Bhatti said Singareni currently supplies 10.54 million tonnes of coal annually to Karnataka through coal linkages.
Singareni supplies 5.24 million tonnes annually through full linkage to the Yerramarus Thermal Power Plant. Through partial linkages, it supplies 3.01 million tonnes to the Raichur Thermal Power Plant and 2.29 million tonnes to the Bellary Unit-3 Thermal Power Plant, he said.
