The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is under fire from the Regulatory Commission for its failure to secure a low-cost electricity procurement deal with Himachal Pradesh-based Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SVJN). This missed opportunity, which could have provided electricity for up to 25 years, comes amid public dissatisfaction over high consumer charges imposed by KSEB.
SVJN issued tenders for 1,500 Megawatts of electricity on April 24, 2023, and reached out to KSEB regarding their requirements in a letter dated December 11, 2023. However, KSEB’s delayed response, which came in March 2024, resulted in other states securing agreements with SVJN for hydroelectric power.
The Regulatory Commission has expressed concern over KSEB’s decision to only purchase 166 Megawatts from SVJN, especially in light of the state’s severe power shortage. This missed opportunity represents a significant loss for Kerala in accessing green energy sources.
Additionally, the Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) recently invited bids for 1,200 Megawatts of electricity in June and July, with a maximum price of Rs 3.46 per unit. The Regulatory Commission has directed KSEB to respond to SECI’s offer within one month, highlighting the urgency of securing affordable and sustainable energy solutions for the state.
