NTPC Seeks Biomass Suppliers to Accelerate Its Carbon Neutrality Goals

NTPC Ltd., a Maharatna company and India’s largest power generation entity, has announced an invitation for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to identify potential suppliers for raw biomass. This biomass is to be used in the torrefied pellet plants NTPC is establishing, either independently or in association with vendors. This initiative aligns with NTPC’s decarbonization strategy, which includes increasing the use of biomass in its coal-based thermal power plants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Decarbonizing Coal Power Plants through Biomass Co-Firing

NTPC has already made significant strides in co-firing non-torrefied biomass pellets with coal, achieving up to 10% biomass co-firing at some of its power plants. However, the limitations of non-torrefied biomass, such as poor grindability and high volatile matter, restrict the extent of biomass usage without costly plant modifications. Torrefied biomass pellets, with their enhanced calorific value and improved properties, offer a viable solution to increase co-firing percentages without major changes to plant infrastructure.

To further expand the utilization of biomass, NTPC has successfully demonstrated 20% torrefied biomass co-firing at its 110 MW Tanda power plant. Based on this success, the company is now actively seeking suppliers to ensure a steady supply of raw biomass for its torrefied pellet plants.

Categories of Suppliers Sought

NTPC invites interested parties from two main supplier categories:

  1. Aggregators: Businesses engaged in biomass aggregation across NTPC plants and NCR districts.
  2. Farmers, FPOs, and Individuals: For NTPC’s Solapur plant, NTPC welcomes participation from local farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and individual suppliers.

The raw biomass required for pellet manufacturing includes agro-residues such as paddy straw, wheat stalks, maize husks, groundnut shells, and horticultural waste like dry leaves and trimmings. This initiative supports the National Mission on the Use of Biomass in coal-based thermal power plants, established by the Ministry of Power, Government of India, to promote sustainable energy practices.

Eligibility and Submission Details

To participate in the EOI, applicants must submit documentation outlining their current biomass aggregation or supply activities, including details on supply capacity, collection areas, and delivery logistics. Submissions must include all required documents, such as a covering letter, business information, technical details, and a notarized power of attorney for the authorized signatory.

Submissions are accepted electronically via email and must also be sent in hard copy by registered post to NTPC’s offices in Noida. The deadline for queries, clarifications, and the final submission of EOIs is specified on NTPC’s tender websites.

Potential Benefits for Suppliers

NTPC's move to increase biomass co-firing creates significant opportunities for local biomass suppliers. By partnering with NTPC, suppliers can contribute to India’s sustainability goals while benefiting from long-term supply agreements. NTPC will consider supplier capabilities, financial stability, and experience when shortlisting potential partners. The selected suppliers may enter agreements to provide raw biomass for NTPC’s pellet plants, helping the company meet its ambitious renewable energy targets.


NTPC’s initiative to identify biomass suppliers marks a significant step toward sustainable energy development in India. By promoting the use of biomass as a renewable fuel source, NTPC is paving the way for cleaner energy production while fostering local supply chains and reducing transportation costs. Suppliers interested in participating in this transformative energy effort are encouraged to submit their EOIs and contribute to India’s clean energy future.