Bengaluru is gearing up for a significant boost in its power generation capabilities with the inauguration of two major plants. The Bidadi waste-to-electricity plant and the Yelahanka Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) are set to commence operations in July, promising to enhance the city’s energy infrastructure and address environmental concerns.
Bidadi Waste-to-Electricity Plant
The Bidadi waste-to-electricity plant is scheduled for inauguration in the last week of July. This project, a collaboration between Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) and Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), aims to generate 11.5 MW of electricity from 600 tonnes of dry waste. With a total cost of ₹260 crore, the plant has already started trial electricity generation.
Energy Minister KJ George has directed officials to ensure all preparations are completed for the inauguration. The plant, employing the latest technology to minimize environmental pollution, is designed to handle 600 tonnes of solid waste daily, producing 11.5 MW of refuse-derived fuels (RDF). The project, initiated by former Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa in December 2020, is the first of its kind to become operational after five years of discussions.
The plant’s primary objective is to assist the BBMP in scientifically disposing of 25% of its waste, significantly reducing landfill pressure and improving the environment. The Bidadi plant will generate 80.59 MU of power, contributing to the State Grid, and is expected to alleviate the financial and environmental burden caused by waste disposal.
Environmental and Operational Aspects
A BBMP official highlighted the scientific management goal for 25% of the city’s waste. The construction of the Waste-to-Energy plant was entrusted to ISGEC Heavy Engineering Ltd. and Hitachi Zosen India Pvt Ltd., which have a proven track record with a similar plant in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
At the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister addressed the waste disposal challenges faced by Bengaluru, emphasizing the high costs and environmental concerns. Environmentalists have welcomed the initiative but have urged the authorities to install a continuous air monitoring system and ensure compliance with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards.
Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited currently manages waste disposal, operating seven processing units. Despite significant investments, a large portion of the daily 5,000-tonne waste output ends up in landfills, with the Mitaganahalli landfill nearing capacity and a new one under development in Hullahalli. The completion of the new waste-to-energy plant could save BBMP up to ₹14 crore annually.
Yelahanka Combined Cycle Power Plant
In addition to the Bidadi plant, the Yelahanka Combined Cycle Power Plant (CCPP) is set for official inauguration in mid-July. With a capacity of 370 MW, the plant, built by Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), utilizes both gas and steam turbines for electricity generation. The project, completed at a cost of ₹260 crore, has faced opposition from residents citing pollution concerns.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the Bidadi waste-to-electricity plant and the Yelahanka CCPP marks a significant step forward in Bengaluru’s energy and waste management strategy. These projects promise to provide substantial benefits in terms of power generation and environmental sustainability, addressing the city’s pressing waste disposal challenges and enhancing its energy infrastructure.
