SMART WATER OPTIMIZATION

Theme: Building a water smart future by optimising resources in thermal power plants.

AWARD WINNERS 2024

🏆 ACB India Ltd – Maruti Clean Coal and Power Ltd

🏆 ACB India Ltd – (2x30MW) Chakabura Plant

🏆 Angul Energy Limited

🏆 Bajaj Energy Limited

🏆 Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd

🏆 CESC Ltd – Budge Budge Generating Station

🏆 DAMODAR VALLEY CORPORATION – RAGHUNATHPUR TPS

🏆 DAMODAR VALLEY CORPORATION – DURGAPUR STEEL TPS

🏆 Dhariwal Infrastructure Limited

🏆 Gujarat State Electricity Corp Ltd – Bhavnagar Lignite TPS

🏆 Gujarat State Electricity Corporation Ltd – Wanakbori TPS

🏆 Jaypee Nigrie Super Thermal Power Plant

🏆 Jhajjar Power Limited

🏆 Jindal Power Limited – TAMNAR

🏆 Jindal Steel and Power Ltd – Raigarh

🏆 Jindal Stainless Limited

🏆 J K Lakshmi cement ltd

🏆 JSW Energy (Barmer) Limited

🏆 JSW ENERGY LIMITED VIJAYANAGAR

🏆 JSW Steel Limited – Raigarh

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Bhusawal Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Khaperkheda Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Koradi Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Nashik Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Parli Thermal Power Station

🏆 MAHAGENCO – Paras Thermal Power Station

🏆 NTPC Limited – Gadarwara Super Thermal Power Station

🏆 NTPC Limited – Singrauli Super Thermal Power Station

🏆 NTPC Limited – Mouda Super Thermal Power Station

🏆 NTPC SAIL POWER Co LTD – Bhilai Expansion Power Plant 

🏆 SINGARENI THERMAL POWER PLANT

🏆 The Tata Power Company Ltd – Jojobera Power Plant

🏆 UltraTech Cement Ltd – Sewagram Cement Works

🏆 Ultratech Cement Ltd. – Baikunth Cement Works

🏆 Vedanta Limited – Lanjigarh

🏆 Vedanta Limited Jharsuguda 4×600 MW TPP

🏆 Vedanta Limited Jharsuguda 9×135 MW CPP

🏆 WBPDCL -Santaldih Thermal Power Station

LEADERSHIP AWARD 2024

About the Conference

Thermal power companies are facing sustainability pressures particularly in water management. Having said that, the main objective of this one-day conference is to address the sustainable measures in optimising water usage in thermal power plants. The conference will address the latest water-efficient technologies, wastewater treatment and reuse, policy frameworks in water conservation, and economic benefits from efficient water use. This will help enhance water conservation, reduce environmental impact, and improve plant efficiency.

Water Efficiency in Thermal Power

India is among the biggest producers of thermal power in the world. As of August 2024, India reported a total installed capacity of 242.99 GW of thermal power. The private sector generates around 53 per cent while states and the Centre generate 24 and 23 per cent respectively. Thermal power generation, which relies on coal, natural gas, and other fuels, consumes vast amounts of water for cooling and steam generation.

In India, older coal-fired power plants with open-loop cooling systems have a water use intensity of 80–160 cu m per MWh, making them highly water-intensive. Plants using closed-loop cooling systems consume 2.8–3.4 cu m per MWh of water. This is twice the global average of 1.2–1.5 cu m per MWh.

As of 2020, it was estimated that 40 per cent of India’s thermal power plants were located in areas experiencing high to extreme water stress, threatening the continuous operation of these plants during drought seasons. 

Under the new regulations by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), thermal power plants in India are mandated to restrict their water withdrawal to 3.5 cu m per MWh for plants installed after 2017, incentivising the adoption of water-efficient practices.

Despite MoEFCC’s guidelines limiting water consumption to 3.5 cu m per MWh for new plants and 5 cu m per MWh for existing plants, over 60 per cent of existing thermal plants continue to exceed these limits due to ineffective enforcement mechanisms.

Use of Technologies to Maximise Water Efficiency

New technologies in India’s thermal power sector are aimed at improving water efficiency while enhancing energy output. Among these technologies are:

Hybrid Cooling System​

Hybrid cooling systems merge both dry and wet cooling technologies to enhance the utility of water and energy efficiency in thermal power stations. Wet cooling relies on the use of water for absorbing some heat from the plant’s steam, after which the water cools back and flows into the plant again. Dry cooling employs air to cool down the steam. Generally, the dry cooling system comprises air-cooled heat exchangers, which require much less water than wet systems but work well in hotter climates. Hybrid coolers thus have the provision for the plant to switch between the modes of wet and dry cooling-dependent upon environmental conditions such as water availability. During scenarios of water shortage or higher temperatures, the system can switch to dry cooling; and during cooler months, it can get back to wet cooling to maximise efficiency.

Closed Loop Cooling Systems

A closed-loop cooling system confines dirt, humidity, warmer outdoor air, and other air pollutants to keep the enclosed enclosure clean while maintaining the temperature inside at the desired level. Closed-loop systems circulate cooling water and provide a means of cooling plant equipment (e.g., condenser) without discharge to the environment. In closed-loop cooling:
• Water flows from the cooling tower to the closed-loop system, extracting heat from the processes of the plant (e.g., steam condensing inside the turbine).
• Heated water is made to flow through a heat exchanger, giving up its heat to the environment (usually by evaporation or air cooling).
• Coldwater is then recirculated back into the loop.

Water-Efficient Turbines and Heat Exchangers

These technologies are designed to maximise the thermodynamic efficiency of the plant while reducing the need for cooling water. The turbine designs improve heat-to-power conversion, which reduces the overall thermal energy needed to produce power and, consequently, the amount of cooling required. Most modern turbines are exposed to supercritical or ultra-supercritical steam and operate at higher pressures and temperatures. This, in turn, reduces the volume of cooling water required. Additionally, some new turbine systems now incorporate advanced heat-recovery techniques, which reduce the heat load on the cooling system while allowing for the reuse of waste heat, thus reducing cooling-water demand.

Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD)

This is a strategic wastewater treatment system that will guarantee no industrial wastewater effluent is discharged into the surroundings. Water usage by thermal power generation involves cooling systems and steam generation among others. However, most of this water becomes polluted and therefore, treatment is necessary before carrying out discharge. ZLD systems will purify and recycle this wastewater; thus, there will be less consumption of freshwater and reduced environmental impact. These systems operate via pre-treatment, evaporation, crystallisation, and recycling.

Air-Cooled Condensers (ACC)

They operate on the premise of distributing steam exhaust from the steam turbine directly to many rows of steam condensers via ducting. Simultaneously, the sizable axial-flow fans draw in air and expel heat by sweeping over the tube bundles outside. While the technology can have higher capital costs and operational energy consumption compared to wet cooling systems, it can still significantly reduce operational water costs, particularly in dry and arid locations. ACC systems also lessen the impact on aquatic ecosystems, improving the environmental sustainability of power plants.

Navigating Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

Recent compliance challenges in India’s thermal power sector highlight significant gaps in meeting environmental and water usage regulations. 

As of 2022, only a small fraction of coal-based plants have installed Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) systems, which are crucial for reducing sulphur dioxide (SO₂) emissions. Despite regulations like the 2015 water consumption limit for thermal plants, ensuring compliance remains difficult. For example, only 21 out of 600 plants had adopted FGD systems by 2022.

Further, Central Electricity Authority’s (CEA’s) reports indicate slow progress in meeting the new emission norms, with only 17 per cent of Category A projects having fully implemented FGDs​.

Water efficiency is also impacted by the slow pace of adopting water-saving technologies, and the delay in the regulatory processes has led to prolonged uncertainty in compliance deadlines.

To address these challenges, stronger enforcement of timelines, better coordination among regulatory bodies, and financial support for retrofitting existing plants with water-efficient technologies systems are essential.

Who Should Attend?

The event is expected to draw participation from executives, managers and decision-makers from:

  • Thermal Power Plants Project Managers
  • Cooling Tower Technology Providers
  • Water Supply and Sewage Boards
  • Water and Wastewater Treatment Design and Project Professionals
  • Power Plant O&M Providers
  • OEM’s & System Integrators
  • Equipment Providers
  • Certifications & Inspection Companies
  • Chief engineers & super intending engineers and other water professionals
  • Wastewater and Effluent Treatment Companies
  • Pollution Control Boards
  • Energy Efficiency Consultants
  • Municipal Corporations
  • Flyash Disposal Technology Providers
  • Water & Environment Conusltants
  • WTP, STP & WWTP Engineers 
  • R&D Organizations
  • Government Senior officials, policy makers and regulators

The CEE 3rd National Power-Gen Water Management Awards 2025

The aim of these awards is to recognize and celebrate outstanding achievements in the efficient and sustainable use of water resources within the power generation sector. The awards seek to highlight and promote best practices, encourage innovative solutions, and foster a culture of responsible water management. By honoring organizations that demonstrate leadership in water conservation and innovation, these awards serve as a catalyst for driving progress and inspiring others to adopt sustainable practices that contribute to the long-term health of the industry and the environment.

Categories

National Water Efficient Unit - IPP
COAL

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL Below 250 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL 250 – 500 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL Above 500 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – IPP
Lignite

National Water Efficient Unit – Lignite Below 125 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – Lignite 125 – 250 MW     

National Water Efficient Unit – Lignite Above 250 MW

National Water Efficient Unit –IPP
CCGT

National Water Efficient Unit – CCGT Below 125 MW  

National Water Efficient Unit – CCGT Above 125 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – CPP COAL

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL Below 50 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL 50 – 135 MW 

National Water Efficient Unit – COAL Above 135 MW

National Water Efficient Unit – CPP

National Water Efficient Unit – Lignite 

National Water Efficient Unit – CCGT

SPECIALISED CATEGORIES

PUBLIC SECTOR

PRIVATE SECTOR

National Water Efficient
Plant of the Year
National Water Efficient
Plant of the Year

National Water Efficient
Team of the Year

National Water Efficient
Team of the Year

National Water Efficient
Leader of the Year

National Water Efficient
Leader of the Year

National Water Efficient
Woman Icon of the Year

National Water Efficient
Woman Icon of the Year

National Efficient
ASH HANDLING
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
ASH HANDLING
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
ZERO LIQUID DISCHARGE
Plant of the year
National Efficient
ZERO LIQUID DISCHARGE
Plant of the year

National Efficient
Rainwater Harvesting
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
Rainwater Harvesting
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
Sewage Treatment
Plant of the year

National Efficient
Sewage Treatment
Plant of the year

National Efficient
Innovative Cooling Water System
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
Innovative Cooling Water System
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
Water Recycling and Reuse Practices
Plant of the year

National Efficient
Water Recycling and Reuse Practices
Plant of the year

National Efficient
Digital Initiative Smart Water
Plant of the Year

National Efficient
Digital Initiative Smart Water
Plant of the Year

SPONSORSHIP

A sure fire way for your firm to emerge as a thriving leader in this proliferation industry would be to sponsor CEE’s National Power-Gen Water Management Summit & Awards 2025 conference. This will successfully leave a powerful and lasting brand impression in the minds of pivotal decision-makers.

Promotion

Our promotional and marketing campaigns will help you garner publicity.

Outline Yourself as a Leader

Event marketing collateral will promote your corporate brand, logo, and profile. This will help you establish yourself as an industry leader.

Potential Clientele

Gain access to our classified delegate list that is so painstakingly and diligently created.

Networking

Virtual meet and greets and socializing with government officials, industry leaders, specialists and senior level delegates.

Key Speakers

Receive the honor of addressing an audience filled with industry decision-makers and leading executives as the primary speaker.

Window of Opportunity

This offers a chance for your administrators to discover your role better and uncover new business opportunities in the sector.

Permanent Reminders

Documentation at the conference will generate lasting mementos of your product or services.

Visibility

Our partners will provide brand building possibilities, higher exposure and so much more.

TYPES OF SPONSORS

Sponsorship Opportunities

Principal Sponsor

INR 600,000 / USD 8,000
Powering Sponsor

INR 500,000 / USD 7000
Knowledge Sponsor

INR 400,000 / USD 6000
Supporting Sponsor

INR 300,000 / USD 5000
Associate Sponsor

INR 250,000/
USD 4000
Lunch
Sponsor

INR 200,000/ USD 3000
Welcome Kit Sponsor

INR 150,000 / USD 2500

Maximum Sponsors Permitted

1
2
3
3
3
2
4

Auditorium Stage Branding

Branding on Conference Website

Sponsor presentation opportunity

1 Slot
30 Minutes

1 Slot
30 Minutes

Branding on Linkedin

Special Announcements of Thanking Sponsors

Delegates list
(shared after the event)

Delegate Passes

8 Delegate Passes
6 Delegate Passes
4 Delegate Passes
4 Delegate Passes

3 Delegate Passes

3 Delegate Passes
2 Delegate Passes

Screening of Corporate film (Duration – minutes)

Upto
5 Minutes
Upto
3 Minutes
Upto
2 Minutes

Panel Discussion Panellist

1 Award Nomination

1 Award Nomination

Exhibition Stall Space
(3×2 Mtrs)

Lobby Sponsor TV AV
(with Audio & Visual)

Promotional Corporate Standee at the pre-function area

Distribute Brochure in Delegate Welcome Kit

Standee acknowledging lunch sponsorship at the lunch venue

Logo on the Bags, Badges/ Lanyard of the participants

Mr. Sachin Chavan
Head Corporate Alliance & Partnerships
Call: +91 9821209403 || Email: sachin@ceexcellence.org

REGISTRATION PROCESS

Online Registration

To participate as Delegates / nominate for Awards / be a Speaker fill and submit online form from the links below.

Receive Invoice

We will email you an invoice along with necessary required documents for processing the payment. The original invoice shall be sent to your postal address.

Make Payment

Make online payment via our secured payment gateway using your Credit Card or Bank Transfer or send Cheque / DD to our postal address.

Delegate Registration

  • Indian Delegate: INR 20000 + 18% GST
  • Overseas Delegate: USD 300 Per Delegate
  • Group Discount: 5% For 3+ Participants and 10% For 5+ Participants

Award Nomination

  • Award: INR 30000 + 18% GST
  • Category Discount: 5% For 2+ Participants and 10% For 5+ Participants

Speaker Registration

  • Indian Speaker: INR 50,000 + 18% GST
  • Overseas Speaker: USD 800

Please Note*

  • For each Award category, only one participant is permitted.
  • In case additional participants (of existing Award nominee) who wish to attend the event, will be charged a discounted price of INR 15,000 + GST per participant.
  • In each category, only 5 nominations are permitted.
  • Only the first 5 applications will be eligible for consideration.
  • Accurate participant information and details must be provided during registration.
  • The online registration is considered final, and no cancellations will be allowed once the registration is completed.
  • Successful online registration will result in a confirmation sent to the provided email address.
  • This is a non-residential event, and attendees are responsible for arranging their own accommodation and transportation to the venue.
  • In case of technical issues with the online registration system, participants are encouraged to contact support (+ 91 98214 19110) for assistance.

About Us

Council of Enviro Excellence (CEE) is an autonomous, national level, non- government, not for profit Initiatives organization, focusing on public interest, research and advocacy on the issues related to energy sector.

CEE provides a platform for power producers & technology providers in the sector to showcase various case studies, best practices, Innovations, etc.

This is done by executing National and International conferences, workshops, and bespoke events based on research and guided by content

Contact Us:

Address: 266, Sahakar Building 30/3, Barrister Nath Pai Marg, Mazgaon, Dockyard Road, Mumbai 400010

Call: +91-98214 19110

Email : info@ceexcellence.org

© 3rd National Power-Gen Water Management and Summit Awards 2025.