JSW Energy Limited, a leading private-sector power producer in India and a part of the $24 Billion JSW Group, has commenced construction of its state-of-the-art 1,600 MW (2×800 MW) ultra supercritical thermal power plant in Salboni, West Bengal.
The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of West Bengal, Ms. Mamata Banerjee, along with JSW Group Chairman Mr. Sajjan Jindal, JSW Foundation Chairperson Ms. Sangita Jindal, and Mr. Parth Jindal of the JSW Group, as well as other dignitaries from the government.
This ₹16,000 crore project is Company’s largest greenfield project till date. The plant is tied up under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL). The plant will utilise domestic coal allocated to West Bengal under the SHAKTI B (IV) policy, ensuring energy security and supporting regional economic growth.
Strategic Importance and Economic Impact
The Salboni project is a cornerstone in JSW Energy’s East India expansion strategy, aiming to bolster the region’s industrial infrastructure and create substantial employment opportunities. The project is expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, focusing on skill development and local sourcing to uplift the Salboni region and its surroundings.
Mr. Sajjan Jindal, Chairman of JSW Group, said: “It is always a pleasure to return to Salboni – the place which marked the beginning of our journey in West Bengal. This journey would not have been possible without the inspiring leadership of honourable Chief Minister Mamata Didi and the valuable guidance and support of the state government. Her vision for Bengal and belief in its people continue to inspire us to invest and grow in the state.
“The upcoming 1600 MW Ultra supercritical thermal power plant of JSW Energy is the largest greenfield plant of our Group and the biggest thermal power project by the private sector in the state of West Bengal. We are going to invest Rs 16,000 crore in this project and it will generate more than 2000 jobs in direct and indirect employment. We are also setting up a JSW Industrial Park here in Salboni spread over 2000 acres, with a plug-&-play infrastructure in keeping with the latest urban planning principles. The industrial park will be a game changer in the industrial and economic growth in the state as well as the eastern region of our country.”
Commitment to Sustainability
JSW Energy continues to focus on sustainable growth, maintaining a ‘Leadership Band (A-)’ rating in CDP Climate Change for the third consecutive year—the highest rating in India’s power sector. The company is also investing in green hydrogen and energy storage solutions for nation’s reliable and affordable energy.
Outlook
The company has made significant strides towards its target of 20 GW power generation capacity significantly before 2030 by securing projects and having a locked-in capacity of more than 30 GW. The Company expects to reach 14 GW installed capacity by June 2025.
JSW Energy also has significant projects totaling 16.3 GWh in energy storage space including one of the India’s largest pumped hydro storage project of 12 GWh. The Company is targeting 40 GWh of energy storage capacity by 2030.
