We are on the verge of another electricity price increase with an average increase of 20 paise per unit. People are always concerned about electricity news but it's often about rate hikes or power shortages. In a country where electricity rates frequently go up in a state where folks often blame the electricity board for their bills, we recently published a positive and hopeful story on the front page.

The special feature in Kaumudi is about Rakesh Roy, a local of Kampilikandam and his six friends. They built a small dam at Chathurakallippara in Mukkudam, Idukki and created a small hydropower project. Mukkudam is now the twelfth private hydropower project in the state producing 11 million units annually. Out of this, 10,000 units will be provided for free to Adimali Taluk Hospital where Rakesh's grandfather and father worked. The cost is deducted from the total electricity supplied to the electricity board.

Rakesh, an engineering graduate, got the idea for this project years ago when he noticed the flowing water in the Kambikandam Parathode stream. He shared the idea with his friends and classmates from engineering college, and that's how their company, Electro Energy Private Limited started nine years ago. Six friends, working in different organizations are partners. The project report submitted to the government in 2015 was approved three years later. This is a remarkable success story.

In a state facing a monthly power deficit of 500 to 1500 MW, every megawatt counts especially when it comes to smaller projects. Rakesh's project has a capacity of four megawatts and it shows the potential for small hydropower projects in Kerala which has numerous rivers and streams. Large hydropower projects are often not feasible due to environmental concerns. While the government promotes solar energy, it also acknowledges its limitations.

This is the time for startups to explore new ventures. Startup Mission is available to provide assistance and guidance. Rakesh sought help and brought along friends with expertise in the subject. There are many engineering graduates in the state and they should consider new ideas and initiatives. KSEB, the state electricity board should support such projects. Until now, the board has been identifying potential locations for small-scale projects and seeking entrepreneurs willing to take them on. Mukkudam is a great example of young people making a difference.

Our state buys electricity at a high price from outside to cover the deficit. The board often passes this cost on to consumers. We know that electricity use is increasing and won't decrease. In this context, small projects like the one in Mukkudam become crucial. It's up to the electricity board and the government to incentivize entrepreneurs by explaining the feasibility and technology of such projects. Everyone should recognize that when large projects aren't viable, smaller ones are necessary.