Bengal Unveils ₹30,000+ Crore Power Expansion Plan to Add 2,400 MW Generation Capacity
West Bengal has launched an ambitious power infrastructure expansion plan worth over ₹30,000 crore to meet the state's rapidly growing electricity demand. The initiative will add 2,400 MW of new coal-based generation capacity through three 800 MW supercritical thermal power units, significantly strengthening the state's energy ecosystem over the next five years.
The expansion includes two 800 MW supercritical units at the Santaldih Thermal Power Station in Purulia, which will be developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The project is expected to attract more than ₹20,000 crore in private investment, making it one of the largest power sector investments in the state in recent years.
In addition, the West Bengal Power Development Corporation Limited (WBPDCL) will set up another 800 MW supercritical unit at the Bakreshwar Thermal Power Station in Birbhum. The Bakreshwar expansion will involve an investment of approximately ₹10,070 crore and will further enhance the state's electricity generation capacity.
Rising Demand Driving Capacity Expansion
The decision comes after West Bengal witnessed record electricity demand during the summer, with WBSEDCL's peak demand crossing 10,000 MW for the first time. In comparison, the combined generation capacity of WBPDCL and WBSEDCL currently stands at around 7,000 MW.
To bridge this gap, the state has been dependent on electricity procured from NTPC, Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC), and power exchanges. The upcoming projects aim to reduce this dependence by increasing in-state generation capacity and improving long-term energy reliability.
Boost for Industry and Employment
The new thermal power projects are expected to be commissioned over the next four to five years. Beyond strengthening energy security, the investments are likely to generate substantial employment during both the construction and operational phases.
Reliable power availability remains a key requirement for attracting manufacturing, industrial investments, data centres, logistics hubs, and other large infrastructure projects. The additional 2,400 MW capacity is expected to support West Bengal's long-term industrial growth while ensuring stable electricity supply for businesses and households.
A Significant Infrastructure Investment
With investments exceeding ₹30,000 crore, the proposed expansion represents one of the largest power infrastructure initiatives currently underway in West Bengal. The combination of public and private sector participation is expected to accelerate project execution while creating long-term economic benefits for the state.
As West Bengal continues to witness rising industrial activity and increasing electricity consumption, the new generation capacity will play a crucial role in supporting economic development, improving energy security, and meeting future power requirements.