Draft Kerala Power Policy 2025: Solar plant mandatory for new homes in state

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Solar plants are likely to be made mandatory for new houses to be built in the state. This rule will be applicable for houses with an area of ​​more than 1000 square feet. Even houses constructed within less than 1000 square feet would be forced to adhere to the policy if the electricity bill exceeds Rs 5000 per month. Through this, the government hope to increase the demand for rooftop solar power generation projects threefold in the state.

This was a recommendation made in the draft electricity policy for 2025. A decision will be taken after the local body elections. For this, the building construction rules will have to be amended. This project was successfully piloted in Uttar Pradesh. Residents' associations and flat complexes can also set up plants collectively. The plant can be established in vacant land purchased or leased collectively, and then arrangements be made to connect this with homes nearby.

The Renewable Energy Regulatory Rules 2025-26 published by the State Electricity Regulatory Commission have also included provisions in this regard. Public hearings related to this will be held in the coming months.

No additional liability

1. There are subsidies and loan facilities from the central and state governments for installing solar plants in homes.

2. Installing a plant of three to five kilowatts will not be a big liability.

A requirement to set up a separate e-vehicle charging system in homes may also be introduced. This is considering the surge in electric vehicles in the state. The widespread practice of solely relying on charging vehicles from house electric connections is adversely affecting the operation of the transformer. It also leads to voltage fluctuations. Therefore, it is recommended that a system with a higher power load be installed according to the electricity consumption of the house.