AP Genco clarifies on thermal unit overhaul

The Andhra Pradesh Power Generation Corporation has said the proposed overhaul of 500 MW unit of the Simhadri stage-1 from August 16 has been deferred by the Transmission Corporation of Andhra Pradesh.

Though it was programmed to shut down the unit, catering to requirements of A.P. and Telangana, for 35-day overhaul, the proposal was put on hold keeping in view the demand in spite of inflows into reservoirs. The Genco clarified that shut down on the units for overhaul was based on grid situation and prior approval from the load dispatch centre and not on any other considerations.

Thermal units would require overhaul to ensure trouble -free service during the peak summer season when both loads as well as rabi agricultural operations reach their peak resulting in maximum demand for power.

Overhaul of thermal units was systemic requirement notwithstanding the short duration power deficit situation experienced by utilities.

Since the demand would relatively be low in rainy season owing to hydel generation, the utilities, State and Central, would chalk out comprehensive plans for overhaul.

The national grid code also stipulated such overhaul programme and the APGenco would take up shut down after communicating the schedule to Southern Regional Power Committee and the Central Electricity Authority