Kerala opens wind power sector to private sector

The government of Indian state of Kerala has appointed Agency for Non-Conventional Energy and Rural Technology to facilitate the development of wind power sector in the state

In a cabinet meeting last week, the government cleared a wind project that will include a private developer. However, details of the project have not been disclosed yet.

At present, there is only wind project in the state. The 2MW windmill is owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board and was commissioned in 1995.

The state has traditionally relied on hydroelectric power for its energy needs. It is estimated that of the total installed capacity of 2.6GW, hydroelectric power constitutes 1.8GW, with nearly 24 hydro-based projects spread across the state.

Experts claim that Kerala has the potential to generate 600MW of electricity through windmills. The key windy areas in the state include the eastern mountainous regions of Idukki district along the border of Tamil Nadu and elevated areas in Palakkad gap. The Ramakkalmedu region in Idukki district is alone estimated to have a potential of 80MW.

Indian wind turbine manufacturer (BSE: Suzlon) has already identified sites in Idukki and Palakad district to set up a 100MW wind farm project. The company awaits formal clearances from the government and regulatory authorities.

Interestingly, the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu has a total capacity of around 3.4GW of wind energy, making it the largest wind energy producer in India.

By: New Energy Finance

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