Kochi: The Kerala State Planning Board has called for strengthening the transmission and distribution (T&D) network in the power sector in the state during the 13th plan period. The approach paper for the 13th plan prepared by the
Board has also called for a substantial increase in the solar energy generation.
Although the approach paper envisages “substantial increase in solar power generation during the 13th plan period” the board has cautioned that “the availability of land may set definite long-term limits to potential capacity”. The paper pointed out that though there is public enthusiasm and awareness of the need for other forms of renewable energy the progress in increasing generation capacity has been relatively slow. The approach paper has also called for a paradigm shift in the small-scale generation capacity from stand-alone to grid-connect systems. “The prospects for renewable energy within Kerala in general require careful analysis”, the paper said. It also called for addressing the prevailing “negative perceptions associated with dam construction for hydel power – even by means of small and medium projects.
Stressing that hydel power is the mainstay of Kerala’s domestic generation the paper pointed out that hydel is also source of renewable energy. The paper pointed out that “while developing domestic capacity for power generation, we must also take note and of the buildup of excess capacity at the national level, making available power for purchase through various long-term, short-term, and spot arrangements. The costs and benefits of these must be examined”.
According to the paper that Kerala is having one of the lowest per capita consumption of electricity due to the low levels of industrialization and low levels of consumption in the agricultural sector.
