In a major move to strengthen Tripura’s power generation capabilities, the state government has announced plans to modernize the Rukhia Power Plant using advanced technology to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply despite the ongoing gas crisis. The bhumi pujan for the project is scheduled for November 26, marking the beginning of this transformative upgrade. Tripura Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath stated that the plant will adopt Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) technology, enabling it to generate 120 megawatts (MW) of electricity using the same amount of gas. “The introduction of this technology will allow us to produce 120 MW of power efficiently, with lower emissions,” he said, highlighting the dual benefits of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The Minister recalled that the Rukhia Power Plant, which originally had an installed capacity of 63 MW, had been producing only around 40 MW between 2017 and 2019 due to operational challenges. In 2019–20, the plant managed 56 MW despite the gas shortage, but environmental clearance issues forced a shutdown in 2022–23. Nath credited his efforts in New Delhi for resolving the clearance problems, allowing the plant to resume operations, currently producing 19 MW.The project is estimated to cost ₹1,119 crore (excluding GST). While gas will remain an essential resource, the state government is also expanding into renewable energy, particularly solar, to ensure long-term sustainability.
Minister Nath emphasized the government’s vision of making Tripura self-sufficient in energy, reducing reliance on imported electricity, and delivering reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly power to residents. “Our priority is to provide uninterrupted power while protecting natural resources and investing in green technologies for the future,” he added.
