As reported, NTPC would appoint consultants for dealing with techno-economic issues relating to the 100MW power palnt by December.

The move is said to be part of NTPC’s cleaner coal drive. The IGCC technology turns coal into synthesis gas and removes impurities from it before it is burnt. The IGCC power plants create less pollution compared to conventional coal-fired plants.

The IGCC technology requires low-ash coal (ash content in coal is up to 10%). The technology needs to be developed further to use in India, where the ash content in coal is said to be 35-40%.

NTPC is expected to award the project by October 2010 and the tender documents would be finalised in March next year.

With a current generating capacity of 30,644MW, NTPC has embarked on plans to become a 75,000MW company by 2017.