Optimizing Heat Rate Summit
Enhancing Efficiency in Indian Thermal Power Plants
Supporting Media Partners
Award Winner 2025
Celebrating the 33 distinguished organizations that achieved excellence in energy efficiency and thermal power optimization across India
🏆 Best National Energy Efficient Leaders of the Year
Honoring exceptional individuals who demonstrated outstanding leadership in energy efficiency
Optimizing Heat Rate Summit
Thermal power plants continue to play a critical role in India's electricity generation. However, improving operational efficiency remains a key challenge due to fuel quality variations, aging assets, environmental compliance requirements, and rising operating costs. One of the most important indicators of plant performance is "Heat Rate".
The Optimizing Heat Rate Summit is designed exclusively for professionals from coal-based thermal power plants to deliberate on practical, implementable strategies for improving heat rate performance. The summit will focus on developmental approaches, advanced technologies, and benchmark operational practices that enable plants to achieve higher efficiency levels while maintaining reliability and regulatory compliance.
Participants will gain insights into fuel optimization, reduction of auxiliary power consumption, minimization of heat and energy losses, performance monitoring, and emission reduction strategies. The discussions will highlight real-world case studies and best practices adopted by leading coal-based power stations, making the summit a valuable knowledge-sharing platform for enhancing operational effectiveness, cost competitiveness, and long-term sustainability.
Understanding heat rate
Heat rate is one of the most critical performance indicators in thermal power plants. It measures the amount of fuel energy (in kcal or BTU) required to generate one unit of electricity (kWh). Simply put, the lower the heat rate, the higher the efficiency of a plant.
In India, where coal-fired thermal plants still dominate the power sector, heat rate optimisation directly impacts financial performance, environmental compliance, and long-term sustainability. A minor improvement in heat rate can save millions of rupees in fuel costs annually, reduce CO₂ emissions, and improve plant reliability.
- Coal remains the backbone of India's power generation: With over 214 GW of coal-fired capacity, coal accounts for almost 50% of India's total installed power capacity (~242 GW thermal).
- Despite the energy transition, coal-fired plants will remain critical to India's grid stability for decades, making efficiency improvements a strategic priority.
The current landscape of Indian thermal power plants
Indian thermal power plants face multiple operational and structural challenges that affect heat rate:
Plant load factor (PLF) decline:
The average PLF for thermal plants dropped to 67.15% in FY 2024–25, highlighting under-utilisation of capacity. Plants operating below optimal loads often see degraded efficiency and higher heat rates.
Coal stock constraints:
A 2024 survey revealed that many plants maintain only 68 per cent of normative coal stock. Insufficient fuel leads to suboptimal operations and negatively impacts heat rate.
Ageing fleet & technology gaps:
Many Indian thermal plants were commissioned decades ago. Outdated boilers, turbines, and auxiliary systems lead to inefficiencies and higher fuel consumption.
Operational variation:
Heat rate varies significantly across units. Only ~59 per cent of coal/lignite stations operate above 35% thermal efficiency, leaving many plants behind global benchmarks.
Why improving heat rate matters
Improving heat rate is not just about technical optimisation — it has far-reaching financial, operational, and environmental consequences:
Fuel cost reduction
A reduction of even 50–100 kcal/kWh in heat rate across a large plant or fleet translates into millions in annual fuel savings.
Emission reduction & compliance
Lower fuel consumption reduces CO₂ and particulate emissions, helping plants meet India's national targets and environmental regulations.
Operational flexibility
Plants with optimised heat rates respond efficiently to load fluctuations and renewable energy integration.
Asset longevity & future-proofing
Efficiency improvements extend plant life and maintain competitiveness as renewable penetration increases.
Opportunities at the Event
Attending our CEE-focused sessions will provide:
Technical deep dives
Boiler tuning, turbine retrofits, auxiliary optimization, predictive maintenance.
Data-driven insights
Benchmarking studies, heat rate trends, and high-performing plant case studies.
Technology showcase
AI/ML monitoring, digital twins, and automation solutions.
Policy & investment discussions
Government incentives, ESG frameworks, and financing mechanisms.
Participants gain practical strategies to reduce heat rate, control costs, and improve plant sustainability.
Why Should You Attend?
Transform your operational efficiency and gain strategic insights at India's premier heat rate optimization summit.
Stay Informed on Industry Trends
Stay informed on the latest industry trends and evolving best practices in coal-based thermal power generation.
Innovative Technologies
Gain exposure to innovative technologies and digital solutions for improving heat rate performance.
Network with Industry Leaders
Network with senior industry professionals, plant leaders, and technology providers.
Practical Insights for Optimization
Acquire practical insights to enhance operational efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and optimize plant performance.
Policy & Regulatory Insights
Understand the impact of current and upcoming regulatory and policy frameworks on thermal power plant operations.
Who Should Attend?
This summit is designed for professionals across the thermal power generation ecosystem
Central & State Sector Power Generation Companies
Coal, Lignite & CCGT
Independent Power Producers
Coal, Lignite & CCGT
Captive Power Producers
Coal, Lignite & CCGT
Government Officials
Policy Makers & Regulators
Power Plant O&M Providers
Operations & Maintenance
Energy Efficiency Auditors & Consultants
Optimization Services
Certification & Inspection Companies
Compliance & QA
Pollution Control Board Officials
Environmental Oversight
Automation Solution Providers
Digital & AI Systems
Government Training Institutions
Capacity Building
| Time | Topic | Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| 10:30 am - 11:30 am | Registration | |
| 11:30 am - 12:00 pm | Opening Presentation: Efficiency as Strategy - Heat Rate, Efficiency Improvement & the Future of India's Thermal Power Sector | Dr. Himadri Banerji, Senior Advisor, Ernst & Young |
| 12:00 pm - 12:40 pm | Technical Presentation 1: Life Extension of Old Thermal Plants with Energy Efficient Clean Coal Technology Retrofits and reduction of CO2 footprint |
• Mr. Sarajit Sen, Managing Director, SMARTLüth Solution and Service Private Limited • Mr. Prabhat Verma, Director, SMARTLüth Solution and Service Private Limited |
| 12:40 pm - 01:20 pm |
Technical Presentation 2: - Sustainable Efficiency Gains - Modern Retrofitting Approaches for Steam Turbines in India - Digital Thermal Twin - Performance Monitoring of Thermal power Plant |
Mr. Saurabh Verma, Portfolio Consulting Professional, Siemens Energy |
| 01:20 pm - 02:30 pm | Lunch Break | |
| 02:30 pm - 03:00 pm | Technical Presentation 4: Energy Efficient technologies for Thermal Power Plants- A Decarbonization Journey for Fossil Fuels based Electricity | Mr. Amitabh Srivastava, Head - Sustainability Solutions, Honeywell Automation India |
| 03:00 pm - 03:30 pm | Technical Presentation 5: Fuel Management & Diversity - Strategies for coal washing, blending, and the integration of biomass co-firing to reduce secondary oil consumption and heat rate | Mr. Ajit Prajapati, AGM, ISGEC Heavy Engineering |
| 03:30 pm - 04:00 pm | Case Study Presentation: MPL's initiative towards reducing net station heat rate and specific raw water consumption |
• Mr. Nitya Mondal, Group Head - Operations, Maithon Power Limited • Mr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, Lead Control Desk Engineer - Operations, Maithon Power Limited |
| 04:00 pm - 04:30 pm | Technical Presentation 6: Heat Rate Improvement for Thermal Power Plants | Mr. Vikas Kukreja, DGM, Thermal Systems (S&CE), BHEL |
| 04:30 pm - 04:45 pm | Tea Break | |
| 4:45 PM | CEE 5th National Power-Gen Energy Efficiency Awards 2026 | |
| 04:45 pm - 05:00 pm | Chief Guest Address | Mr. Anil Razdan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power, GoI |
| 05:00 - 06:30 pm | Awards Presentation |
Awards to be presented by - Mr. Anil Razdan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Power, GoI - Dr. Himadri Banerji, Senior Advisor, Ernst & Young |
Conference Presentations
CEE 5th National Power-Gen Energy Efficiency Awards 2026
Celebrating Excellence in Energy Efficiency
The CEE 5th National Power-Gen Energy Efficiency Awards 2026 provide a distinguished national platform for recognizing and celebrating exemplary achievements in energy efficiency across thermal power plants. As thermal power generation continues to play a pivotal role in India's power sector, enhancing energy efficiency has become imperative for improving plant performance, reducing fuel consumption, and strengthening sustainability outcomes. The Awards honor organizations that demonstrate innovation, adoption of best practices, and a sustained commitment to operational excellence.
Awards Categories
Celebrating excellence and innovation in energy efficiency across various plant categories and operational achievements
IPP – Coal
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (Below 500 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (500 - 1000 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (1000 - 1500 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (Above 1500 MW)
IPP – Lignite
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Lignite (Below 125 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Lignite (125–250 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Lignite (Above 250 MW)
IPP – CCGT
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – CCGT (Below 125 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – CCGT (Above 125 MW)
CPP (Captive Power Plant)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (Below 50 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (50–135 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Coal (Above 135 MW)
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – Lignite
- Excellent Energy Efficient Unit – CCGT
Specialized Award Categories
Public Sector / Private Sector
- National Energy Efficient IPP Coal Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient IPP Lignite Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient IPP CCGT Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Team of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Leader of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Women Icon of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Flexible Operation Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Plant Load Factor (PLF) Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Retrofitted Unit of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Biomass Co-firing Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) Plant of the Year
- National Renewable Integration and Co-generation Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Fuel Utilization Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Carbon Capture Plant of the Year
- National Energy Efficient Digital Transformation Plant of the Year
Key Benefits of Nominating
Showcase Achievements
Highlight your team's efforts in optimizing energy usage and setting benchmarks for industry peers.
Enhance Brand Reputation
Gain national recognition and credibility as a pioneer in energy efficiency.
Foster Innovation
Inspire your workforce and others by demonstrating successful implementation of innovative strategies.
Encourage Industry Collaboration
Engage with industry leaders, policymakers, and experts, fostering growth and sharing best practices.
Seize this opportunity to spotlight your dedication to energy efficiency and sustainability. A nomination is not just an acknowledgment but a step toward building a greener and more efficient future. Take the First Step Towards Recognition Today!
Key Dates
Registration
Delegate Registration
- Indian Delegate
- INR 22,500 + 18% GST Per Delegate
- Overseas Delegate
- USD 300 Per Delegate
- Group Discount
- 5% For 3+ Participants
- 10% For 5+ Participants
Award Nomination
- INR 33,500 + 18% GST Per Category
- Discount 5% For 3+ Categories
Speaker Registration
- Indian Speaker
- INR 60,000 + 18% GST
- Overseas Speaker
- USD 800
Registration Process
Online Registration
To participate as Delegates, nominate for Awards, or be a Speaker, fill and submit the online form from the links above.
Receive Invoice
We will email you an invoice along with the necessary documents for processing the payment. The original invoice will also be sent to your postal address.
Make Payment
Make online payment via our secured payment gateway using your Credit Card, Bank Transfer, or send Cheque/DD to our postal address.
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 20,500 + 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.
- In case of technical issues with the online registration system, participants are encouraged to contact support (+ 91 98214 19110) for assistance.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Become a Partner in Excellence
Position your brand at the forefront of India's power generation industry. Sponsor the CEE Power-Gen Leadership Awards & Conference and connect with key decision-makers shaping the future of energy.
- Enhanced brand visibility among industry leaders
- Direct access to power generation professionals
- Thought leadership and networking opportunities
Sponsorship Packages
| Sponsorship Opportunities | Platinum Sponsor (INR 600,000 / USD 8,000) |
Diamond Sponsor (INR 500,000 / USD 7,000) |
Gold Sponsor (INR 400,000 / USD 6,000) |
Silver Sponsor (INR 350,000 / USD 5,000) |
Associate Sponsor (INR 250,000 / USD 4,000) |
Lunch Sponsor (INR 200,000 / USD 3,000) |
Welcome Kit Sponsor (INR 150,000 / USD 2,500) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Sponsors Permitted | 1 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
| Auditorium Stage Branding | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Branding on Conference Website | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sponsor Presentation Opportunity | 1 slot 30 Min |
1 slot 30 Min |
— | — | — | — | — |
| Branding on LinkedIn | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Special Announcements | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Delegates List | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — |
| Delegate Passes | 8 | 6 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Screening of Corporate Film | Upto 5 Min | Upto 3 Min | Upto 2 Min | — | — | — | — |
| Panel Discussion Panellist | ✓ | — | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — |
| 1 Award Nomination | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Exhibition Stall Space (3×2 Mtrs) | ✓ | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — |
| Lobby Sponsor TV AV | ✓ | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Promotional Corporate Standee | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Distribute Brochure in Welcome Kit | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Standee Acknowledging Lunch Sponsorship | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ | — |
| Logo on Bags/Badges/Lanyard | — | — | — | — | — | — | ✓ |
Connect with us
Have Questions?
Mr. Sachin Chavan
Head – Corporate Alliance & Partnerships