Kerala eyes 5,000 MW power boost, plans solar battery storage expansion

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala will introduce a comprehensive power policy aimed at generating 5,000 MW of electricity over the next five years, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan told the Assembly. The state’s power demand is projected to reach 11,000 MW by 2030. Meeting this demand will require short- and long-term power purchase agreements and increased electricity generation, the Chief Minister said.

The government is pursuing a long-term power purchase agreement with NTPC. It also plans to expand battery storage facilities to store solar power for use at night. The proposed power policy will include a commitment to retain the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) in the public sector. The government has no plans to privatise the utility, Satheesan said.

No power cuts in October

Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph said there had been no need to impose power cuts or load shedding in October. The Opposition staged a walkout after an adjournment motion notice submitted by G.R. Anil on the issue was not taken up for discussion.