The opening ceremony of the second-stage coal-drying machine at the Tikyit Coal-Fired Steam Power Plant was held yesterday morning at the plant in Pinlaung Township, Southern Shan State. The event saw Union Minister U Tin Aung San, Chairman of the Electricity and Energy Development Commission, Union Minister U Nyan Tun of the Ministry of Electric Power, Chief Minister of Shan State U Aung Aung, Central Advisory Committee member of the National Defence and Security Council U Khun San Lwin, Chair of the Pa-O Self-Administered Zone Administration Body U Khun Ye Htwe, state ministers, departmental officials, representatives from Wuxi Hua Guang (Myanmar) Co Ltd, Eden Energy and Natural Resources Development Co Ltd, and Manaw Aya General Trading Co Ltd, invited guests, and local people.

The second-stage coal-drying machine was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Chairman of the Electricity and Energy Development Commission, the Union Ministers and the Shan State Chief Minister. Officials warmly greeted and welcomed the local attendees.

After the opening, the Chairman and officials toured the plant’s operations, including the coal-drying machine and the power control room, observing the connection of the plant to the national power system and the dispatch of electricity. Departmental and company staff briefed the officials and were provided with fruits and refreshments.

In a briefing, the Chairman highlighted that the electricity generation plans are designed to meet short-, medium-, and long-term national electricity needs, and that domestic and foreign investments are being invited for expansion. Although coal-fired power generation contributes stable electricity to the national grid, Myanmar’s current output remains low compared with neighbouring ASEAN countries. Among Myanmar’s abundant coal resources, sub-bituminous coal is the most widely available. Expanding coal-fired power plants will enhance electricity production, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact through advanced technology, in line with the Commission’s mandate to utilize multiple resources effectively and sustainably.

The plant’s first stage already produced 90 MW of electricity. With the second-stage coal-drying machine now operational, capacity has increased to 120 MW, adding 30 MW to the national electricity supply. Union Minister U Nyan Tun briefed officials on the operation and construction progress of the second-stage machine, while the Pa-O Self-Administered Zone Administration Body Chair U Khun Ye Htwe and Wuxi Hua Guang (Myanmar) Co Ltd representatives expressed their gratitude.

Officials also inspected the storage and production of coal briquettes and ongoing coal excavation for the plant. The new coal-drying machine reduces coal moisture, increases thermal energy output, and raises electricity generation from 90 MW to 120 MW, contributing an additional 30 MW to meet the country’s electricity demand.

MNA/KZL

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