The National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) is planning to set up nuclear power plants in Madhya Pradesh by 2010.
According to NTPC chairman V K Chaturvedi, the corporation is likely to set up a power plant by 2010 and another two are in the pipeline.
The site for the first plant would be decided later this year by the Atomic Energy Commission chairman, Anil Kakodkar, he said. The capacity of the plants would be finally decided under the 10th Plan panel.
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He said, "The plan is to set up a total power capacity of 3,000 mw which would increase to 20,000 mw by 2020. If plans take shape, Chaturvedi said NTPC would be able to sell power to Maharashtra, Gujarath and other neighbouring states.
At present, the state owes Rs 1,700 crore to the NTPC and the dispute between the state and NTPC has not been settled so far. "Once the Montek Singh Ahluwalia Committee recommends a slash in the interest rates from the existing 24 per cent to 12 per cent, the state will be able to pay the dues," Chaturvedi said.
On the site of the proposed power projects, Chaturvedi said, "The Atomic Energy Department would declare it. They will conduct a survey and then we will be able to finalise anything."
According to sources, Chutka in the Mandla district is likely to be finalised as the site for the plant. Scientists and senior officials have already visited the place.