Rihand (Sonbhadra): NTPC Rihand has significantly strengthened its sustainability initiatives, aligning its operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a comprehensive approach focused on environmental conservation, circular economy principles, resource efficiency, and clean energy transition.
Since its inception, the power station has prioritized large-scale afforestation and ecological restoration. Nearly 2.4 million trees have been planted within the plant premises and surrounding areas, contributing substantially to the region’s green cover. Of these, around 35,000 saplings have been planted using the Miyawaki technique, known for creating dense, fast-growing micro-forests that enhance biodiversity and improve air quality. For the financial year 2026–27, NTPC Rihand has set a target of planting 75,000 trees, including 36,000 Miyawaki saplings.
In the area of waste management, the station has adopted a zero-plastic-waste-disposal approach. Since 2019, approximately 34 tonnes of plastic waste generated in the township has been co-processed in cement plants, ensuring environmentally safe disposal. Color-coded bins and regular awareness campaigns have further promoted waste segregation at source and responsible waste management practices among residents.
Promoting a “Waste-to-Wealth” philosophy, NTPC Rihand has also supported initiatives that transform recyclable materials into creative crafts and artwork, generating awareness while encouraging skill development and livelihood opportunities within the community.
The station has made notable progress in the utilization of industrial by-products. Fly ash and pond ash are being effectively supplied for cement manufacturing and road construction projects, supported by dedicated transportation systems such as BTAP and BOXN wagons, enabling large-scale reuse and reducing environmental impact.
During FY 2025–26, NTPC Rihand utilized 40,848 metric tonnes of biomass pellets under the Samarth campaign, further reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels.
A major environmental milestone achieved by the station is the 100 percent recycling and reuse of domestic and industrial wastewater, significantly reducing dependence on freshwater resources and reinforcing its commitment to water conservation. Simultaneously, work is underway on a Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) unit, which is expected to substantially reduce sulphur oxide emissions and improve ambient air quality.
On the renewable energy front, NTPC Rihand is developing a 20 MW solar power project to advance its decarbonization efforts. The station is also progressing toward the creation of a Net-Zero Township, aimed at sustainably meeting its energy and water requirements. As part of this initiative, a rainwater harvesting system with a capacity of 1.2 lakh cubic metres has already been commissioned, while an additional 4 lakh cubic metre capacity is under planning. Rooftop and ground-mounted solar installations with a combined capacity of 6 MW are also being developed.
Through these integrated and forward-looking initiatives, NTPC Rihand continues to set new benchmarks in sustainable power generation. Its efforts demonstrate strong alignment with India’s climate commitments and global sustainability goals, reinforcing its position as a responsible and future-ready energy producer.
