World Power Plants

SASAN UMPP, also known as Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project, is a prominent coal-fired power generation facility located in India, boasting a capacity of 3960 MW. With coordinates at 23.9784, 82.6275, this power plant is vital for meeting the electricity needs of millions in the region. Commissioned in 2013 and operated by Reliance Power, SASAN UMPP reflects India’s commitment to bolstering its energy infrastructure through large-scale coal projects. The plant utilizes cutting-edge coal technology, which maximizes efficiency and minimizes emissions, aligning with the country’s energy policies that aim to ensure energy security while considering environmental impacts. The Sasan UMPP plays an essential role in the national energy mix, providing stable and reliable power that supports economic growth and development in the region. Its strategic location enhances its importance to the local grid, enabling it to supply electricity to both urban and rural areas. The facility's operational context emphasizes the balance between coal-based generation and the exploration of renewable energy sources, as India navigates its energy transition. As a vital component of the national grid, SASAN UMPP is a testament to the country’s efforts in expanding its energy capabilities while adhering to sustainability goals.

Capacity
3,960 MW

3.96 GW

Commissioning Year
2013

13 years old

Owner
Reliance Power
Location
23.9784°, 82.6275°

India, Asia

Context & rankings
  • 9. largest of 1,805 plants in India
  • #192 worldwide by installed capacity
  • #60 of 2,793 Coal plants worldwide
  • 0.77% of the installed capacity of India
Age & fleet comparison

13 years in operation

Coal fleet average: 29.2 years

Operator portfolio

Reliance Power operates 8 plants totalling 14,873 MW

Regional density

17 plants within 100 km, 34,262 MW combined

Nearest plant: Vindhyachal Thermal Power Station (13.5 km)

Data provenance

Location

Coordinates:: 23.978400, 82.627500
Open in Google Maps
Carbon Footprint820 g CO₂/kWh
Annual CO₂
15.65 Mt
19079 GWh/year × 820 g/kWh
Cumulative CO₂
203.39 Mt
Over 13 years of operation
Est. Retirement
2053
27 years remaining
Annual emissions equivalent to
3.4M
cars per year
2.1M
homes per year
711.1M
trees to offset

Estimates based on Coal emission factor (820 g CO₂/kWh) and capacity factor (55%). Actual emissions may vary based on operating conditions, efficiency, and fuel quality.

Technical Details

Primary Fuel Type
Coal
Energy Source
Non-Renewable
Country
India
Continent
Asia
Data Source
Global Power Plant Database

Overview of SASAN UMPP: A Major Coal-Fired Power Plant in India

SASAN UMPP, or the Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project, is a significant coal-fired power plant located in Madhya Pradesh, India. Commissioned in 2013, the facility boasts an impressive capacity of 3960 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest power generating stations in the country. As part of India's broader energy sector, SASAN UMPP plays a crucial role in meeting the growing electricity demand, especially in the central and northern regions of India. This power plant is integral to the government's efforts in enhancing energy security and promoting economic growth through reliable power supply.

The SASAN UMPP operates on coal as its primary fuel source, which is a common choice for thermal power generation due to its abundance and cost-effectiveness. The plant utilizes supercritical technology, which allows it to generate electricity more efficiently than traditional coal-fired plants. Supercritical units operate at higher pressures and temperatures, resulting in improved thermal efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions per unit of electricity produced. This technology is particularly significant in a country like India, where energy needs are on the rise, and there is a pressing need to balance economic growth with environmental concerns.

Despite its role in bolstering energy supply, SASAN UMPP faces scrutiny regarding its environmental impact. Coal-fired power plants are known for contributing to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and other environmental challenges. The plant's operation has raised concerns about the local air quality and potential health effects on nearby communities. Additionally, coal mining activities associated with the plant can lead to land degradation and habitat disruption. To mitigate these impacts, the facility is required to implement various environmental management practices, including emissions control technologies and afforestation initiatives.

Regionally, SASAN UMPP holds significant importance as it supports the power requirements of several states, contributing to economic development and industrial growth in the area. The electricity generated by this plant is transmitted to the national grid, thereby supporting both rural electrification and urban industrialization. The strategic location of the plant also enables it to serve as a backbone for the energy infrastructure in central India, improving energy access and reliability.

In conclusion, SASAN UMPP is a critical asset in India's power generation landscape, characterized by its substantial capacity and utilization of advanced coal technology. While it provides essential electricity to meet the country's demand, ongoing efforts to address its environmental impact are vital to ensure sustainable energy production in the years to come.

IndiaEnergy Profile

1,805
Total Plants
513.9 GW
Total Capacity
CoalGasHydroSolar
Top Fuels

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