Ratul Puri on How AI Can Address Challenges in Thermal Power Generation

Thermal power generation has evolved over the last century, with major advances in operational efficiency, reliability and safety. However, India's growing electricity demand and changing energy landscape are creating new challenges for the power sector. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers opportunities to address these issues by improving existing operations rather than replacing established technology. According to Ratul Puri, AI's real potential lies in solving practical problems that affect plant performance, costs and reliability.

Using AI to Prevent Equipment Failures

Unexpected equipment breakdowns and forced outages remain significant concerns for thermal power generators. Recent power shortages across several states have highlighted the importance of maintaining reliable electricity generation.

AI-powered predictive maintenance can help identify potential equipment failures before they cause disruptions. Drones, computer vision and AI-based analytics can detect defects, thermal hotspots and early signs of equipment deterioration. By examining historical maintenance and equipment performance data stored in systems such as SAP, AI can also identify recurring issues and support better maintenance planning.

As Ratul Puri explains, "AI must deliver practical solutions to the challenges that power plants face every day. Preventing equipment failures and improving plant reliability should be among its most important applications."

Successful implementation depends on accurate records, consistent data collection and continuous monitoring. With reliable information, AI can help power plants move from reactive repairs towards Reliability-Centred Maintenance, reducing unexpected outages and improving equipment performance.

Improving Coal Quality and Monitoring

Coal accounts for nearly 60% of a thermal power plant's operating costs, making effective fuel management essential. Differences between declared and actual Gross Calorific Value (GCV), along with transportation losses, can affect plant efficiency and financial performance.

AI-enabled surveillance, drone monitoring and data analytics can help identify potential irregularities during coal transportation by rail and road. Robotic coal sampling at loading and delivery points can improve accuracy and consistency while reducing dependence on manual intervention.

Ratul Puri notes, "Technology can bring greater transparency and accountability to coal management. Combining AI-based monitoring with automated sampling can help address long-standing concerns around coal quality and transit losses."

Supporting Flexible Power Generation

As renewable energy capacity increases, thermal power plants must adjust their output more frequently to maintain grid stability. Operating at minimum technical loads of 55% or lower, combined with repeated ramp-ups and ramp-downs, can increase equipment stress, accelerate wear and reduce operational efficiency.

AI can improve forecasts of electricity demand and renewable energy generation, helping operators plan generation schedules and load changes more effectively. Better forecasting allows plants to respond to grid requirements while considering equipment condition and long-term asset life.

According to Ratul Puri, "The way forward is to use AI where it creates measurable value. Better forecasting, smarter maintenance and improved operational decisions can help thermal power plants remain reliable and competitive as India's energy mix evolves."

The Future of AI in Thermal Power Generation

AI can help strengthen India's thermal power sector when supported by reliable data, integration with existing systems and collaboration between technology providers and plant operators.

By prioritising predictive maintenance, effective coal management and flexible operations, power plants can address persistent challenges while improving efficiency and reliability. As India's energy needs grow, practical AI applications can help thermal power plants remain dependable and competitive while adapting to the country's evolving energy mix.

About Ratul Puri

Ratul Puri is the Chairman of Hindustan Power, an integrated power generation company with a strong presence in renewable and transitional energy generation. Over the years, Ratul Puri has been involved in the development of large-scale energy infrastructure projects that support India’s growing power requirements and its transition toward cleaner energy sources.

For more information visit:

https://ratulpuri.in/