Kerala Power: KSEB to Fast-Track Hydel Projects, 39.5 MW Added by May 2027
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has decided to accelerate work on all hydroelectric projects that are in the development stage, following criticism over its handling of the power crisis during the monsoon season. The decision was taken at a review meeting chaired by Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph on Thursday.
As part of the decision, four small hydroelectric projects with a combined capacity of 39.5 megawatt (MW) will be completed by April-May 2027. These are the 24 MW Chinnar small hydro project, the 3 MW Poovaramthode project, the 5 MW Olikkal project, and the 7.5 MW Pazhassi Sagar project. The KSEB plans to have them ready for the 2027 summer season, when electricity demand typically peaks in Kerala.
The board also decided to speed up preliminary work on hydel projects that are still on the drawing board. Two major projects in the planning stage are the extension schemes for the Idukki and Sabarigiri hydel projects. These are among Kerala's largest hydel installations, and their expansion is expected to add to the State's internal power generation capacity.
In a statement, the Minister's office said: "The KSEB will take steps to commission hydel projects in the development stages as early as possible for increasing the internal power generation capacity of the State and to meet the growing electricity demand."
Senior engineers of the KSEB who head the different hydel projects attended the review meeting. The decision comes amid increasing pressure on the State's power infrastructure. Kerala has historically relied on hydel power, but its generation depends heavily on reservoir levels, which are replenished by the southwest monsoon. A weak or erratic monsoon can lead to a shortfall, forcing the State to buy costly power from outside.
The four small hydro projects are expected to provide some relief during summer months, when hydel generation often dips and demand for cooling rises. Small hydro projects typically have a capacity of up to 25 MW and are considered less environmentally disruptive than large dams, though they still require careful planning.
The Idukki and Sabarigiri extension schemes, if completed, could significantly boost the State's hydel capacity. The Idukki hydel project is one of the largest in Kerala, with multiple generators, while Sabarigiri is another major scheme in the Pathanamthitta district. However, these projects are still in the preliminary stages, and timelines for their completion have not been announced.
The KSEB's move to fast-track hydel projects is part of a broader effort to reduce the State's dependence on external power sources and to meet its growing energy needs. Kerala's electricity demand has been rising steadily due to economic growth, urbanisation, and changing weather patterns. The State has also been expanding its solar and wind capacity, but hydel remains a key component of its energy mix.
Critics have pointed out that delays in completing hydel projects have contributed to the power crisis during monsoon. The KSEB's decision to review and speed up projects may address some of these concerns, but the success will depend on effective implementation and timely completion. The board has not specified how it plans to overcome challenges such as land acquisition, environmental clearances, and financing, which often slow down infrastructure projects.
The review meeting was attended by senior engineers responsible for the projects, indicating a focus on operational coordination. The KSEB is expected to monitor progress regularly to ensure the April-May 2027 deadline for the four small hydro projects is met. For now, the State's power situation remains a concern, and the fast-tracking of hydel projects is seen as a step towards long-term energy security.
