NTPC Corporate Contract Services in association with Energy Transition and Policy Research Department of NTPC Engineering has awarded a Pilot Project for the demonstration of methanol firing at Kayamkulam, Gas Turbine. The NOA has been awarded to BHEL on 19th July 2024. In the first phase of project (awarded to BHEL), demonstration of methanol firing up to the maximum possible load shall be carried out without any modifications in gas turbine. The demonstration project has been planned to explore alternate fuel options for utilization of existing gas assets which can facilitate RE integration and reduce emissions. NTPC is already exploring the possibility of methanol synthesis using carbon capture from flue gases. The use of this green methanol in gas turbines has the potential to create a circular carbon economy in NTPC. Further, with the expected reduction in green hydrogen cost in near future, methanol cost and ECR (Energy Charge Rate) with use of green methanol is expected to reduce significantly.

Based on the results of this pilot project, decision for phase-II i.e., methanol firing for full load and continuous operation in Kayamkulam Gas Turbine shall be taken. The technology can also be considered for implementation in other NTPC Gas turbines based on the techno-commercial viability and results of demonstration project.