THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: KSEB has reduced the rates for the surplus energy sold by solar-installed energy consumers to the department in the state. The previous rate of Rs 3.22 per unit has been reduced to Rs 2.69. In last September, KSEB submitted a request to the Electricity regulatory commission to reduce the charges applied for buying energy from solar-installed consumers, after the department opened up about the loss induced when purchasing energy at Rs 3.22.

KSEB is defending its stance with the increased usage of water and electricity in the state that resulted in the cutting of prices. KSEB mostly purchases energy from other private players and the ensuing financial doom in the state has forced the department to adopt the miser ways.

If solar gets wide usage in the state, the benefits are up for the department to enjoy as the ever-strong reliance on other states for energy consumption will reduce and help thrive the economy better. However, the current move is a pickle and the department should deal with a way to alleviate the concerns of solar users in the state.

As of now, KSEB buys energy from outside at RS 12 per unit. if the summer extends, the rate can rise up to Rs 40 as per central government standards.