(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)

The West Bengal Power Development Corporation Limited (WBPDCL) stands as a towering pillar in the energy sector of India. A wholly owned entity of the Government of West Bengal, WBPDCL plays a crucial role in ensuring the state’s energy security by generating and supplying electricity through its thermal power plants. Its operations span across several locations, with prominent plants situated in Kolaghat, Bakreswar, Sagardighi, Santaldih, and Bandel. Headquartered at Bidyut Unnyan Bhaban in Kolkata, WBPDCL is strategically placed to serve the energy needs of the region, contributing significantly to the state’s power infrastructure.

Dr. P. B. SALIM, IAS
Chairman, WBMDFC

One of the most remarkable milestones in the history of WBPDCL was the record-breaking achievement where three of its thermal plants secured spots in the top five of the Plant Load Factor (PLF) rankings in India. Out of 205 thermal power stations nationwide, Bakreswar Thermal Power Station (BKTPS) topped the list with a stellar PLF of 92.38%. Santaldih TPS and Sagardighi TPP also made it to the prestigious top five, securing the second and fifth positions with PLFs of 91.34% and 89.39%, respectively. This accomplishment not only underscores the operational excellence at WBPDCL but also highlights its unwavering commitment to providing reliable power supply.

In addition to this, WBPDCL achieved a remarkable gross generation of 31.85 billion units (BU) with an overall PLF of 85.36% for the year. This represents a growth of 33% over the last fiscal, marking a new chapter of success for the organization. The plant’s performance outshone that of major private sector players, including Tata Power, Adani Power, and Reliance Power, propelling WBPDCL to the forefront of the national power generation landscape. The company’s profitability has surged threefold, further validating the organization’s strong operational and financial health.
The impressive performance of the plants can also be attributed to enhanced coal production from WBPDCL’s own mines. The organization achieved a production of 18.65 million metric tonnes (MMT) of coal, a 60% increase from the previous year, which significantly contributed to the higher generation outputs.

A significant development at WBPDCL is its achievement of self-sufficiency in coal supply for its thermal plants from captive sources. In FY24, the corporation produced 18.41 million tonnes of coal, and in the current fiscal, it aims to increase that number to 20 million tonnes. This not only boosts the company’s operational capacity but also aligns with the nation’s focus on ensuring energy security while minimizing dependency on external coal suppliers.Furthermore, WBPDCL continues to uphold a commitment to responsible environmental practices. Its growth is aligned with its corporate social responsibility initiatives, aiming to promote community development and socio-economic upliftment in local areas where its plants are situated. WBPDCL’s CSR initiatives honor the Triple Bottom Line approach, focusing on people, planet, and profits.

Recognition and Awards
A Testimony to Excellence
WBPDCL’s unwavering commitment to excellence has earned the organization numerous accolades, cementing its position as an industry leader. At the 17th PRCI Global Communication Conclave held in New Delhi, WBPDCL won the prestigious Chanakya Award 2023 for Excellence in Employee Engagement. The award was presented by Jual Oram, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, highlighting the organization’s efforts in fostering a strong and engaged workforce.In addition, WBPDCL’s remarkable performance was further recognized as it bagged seven awards at the 13th PRCI Excellence Awards, including one Gold, four Silver, and two Bronze awards. These accolades were given for the excellence in corporate collateral materials such as the corporate brochure, house journal, annual report, and calendars, underscoring WBPDCL’s attention to detail and effective communication strategies.WBPDCL’s commitment to innovation also saw the development of the ‘Gentrack’ mobile app, which won the prestigious ASSOCHAM Mobile App Utilities Award. This app serves as a real-time platform for monitoring power generation and coal rake movement, facilitating timely business decisions and ensuring efficient power generation. The app is a shining example of WBPDCL’s forward-thinking approach in integrating technology with business operations to streamline processes and minimize power outages.

Corporate Governance and Business Excellence

The West Bengal Power Development Corporation’s commitment to robust corporate governance has been widely recognized. At the Business Excellence Awards organized by ASSOCHAM, WBPDCL won the Corporate Governance Award, acknowledging its transparent and ethical business practices. This recognition serves as a testament to WBPDCL’s role in fostering sustainable business practices and maintaining the highest standards of corporate responsibility in the energy sector.

A Vision for the Future
WBPDCL’s path to success is marked by a series of remarkable achievements, from record-breaking power generation to winning prestigious awards for corporate excellence. With a strong focus on operational efficiency, employee engagement, and environmental responsibility, WBPDCL has set new benchmarks in the power generation industry. As the company continues to grow and expand its capabilities, it remains a shining example of how public sector enterprises can excel in delivering critical services while fostering sustainable development and contributing to the socio-economic well-being of the communities they serve. With an ambitious vision for the future, WBPDCL is poised to continue its leadership role in the power sector, powering the growth and development of West Bengal and beyond. Through its dedication to innovation, corporate governance, and community well-being, WBPDCL is truly leading the way in the energy landscape of India.

(This article has been written in good faith, drawing on the information gathered and the personal experiences of the writer.”) readers can send their feedback at newsmanofindia@gmail.com