Kerala to promote more mini hydro power projects

To boost power production, Kerala has devised a comprehensive scheme for setting up more mini-hydro power projects in the state. As part of the scheme, the government will set up more mini-hydel power projects by forming Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) with local bodies and cooperative institutions.

The state government has also already expedited works on nine mini-hydro electric power projects and initiated proceedings for acquiring land for eight more mini-hydel power projects.

As per the details available from the state government, the decision to tap the potential of hydro power projects in the state was taken considering the need to increase power production due to surge in demand.

Currently, works are on for six mini hydel power projects at Bhoothathankettu (24 MW), Chinnar (24 MW), Peruvannamuzhi (6 MW), Pazhassi Sagar (7.5 MW), Ollikkal (5 MW) and Poovaramthodu (3 MW). According to KSEB officials, the works on the main six mini power projects will be completed within one year and the board is looking at adapting new technologies like “HydroKinetic ” for these new projects.

The government has also decided to commence works on three more projects at Marippuzha (6 MW), Upper Chenkullam (24 MW) and Peringalkuthu Stage II (24 MW) this fiscal. Apart from these nine projects, proceedings have begun to acquire land for eight more mini power projects in the state.

“Hydro electric power projects play a crucial role in state’s power production. The government has decided to promote more mini-hydro power projects as it’s the most environment-friendly green source of power,” Minister for Power and Energy K Krishnankutty recently said in a reply to the questions in the Assembly.

He said the government is actively considering bringing changes to the policy on mini-hydro power projects to attract more investments in this sector. “Earlier, we used to get funds from the Central government for mini-hydel power projects. But the Centre has stopped it now. We have approached the Centre seeking to reinstate it,” he added.