The Union Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal held a comprehensive review of Kerala's power sector on Friday at Hotel Leela Raviz. The discussion revolved around renewable energy integration, power distribution improvements, and strategies to meet the state’s growing electricity demand.

Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi and Kerala Electricity Minister K Krishnankutty joined senior officials from the Centre, the state government, and the Power Finance Corporation (PFC) in outlining key goals under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).

Kerala Seeks Support for Power Needs Kerala highlighted its immediate energy requirements, thanking the Centre for allocating coal linkage for 500 MW, Rs 1.35 billion in viability gap funding for battery energy storage systems, and power from NTPC Barh until March 2025. The state requested an extension of the NTPC allocation to June 2025, emphasizing its importance in attracting data centers.

Key issues raised by Kerala included land allocation for a nuclear power project and resolving disputes over DBFOO contracts pending with the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL).

Push for Smart Metering and Reforms The Union Minister urged Kerala to prioritize the rollout of smart metering, starting with government, commercial, and industrial establishments. He emphasized the need to reduce accumulated losses in distribution utilities and address infrastructure challenges under the RDSS.

The Centre also advised Kerala to collaborate with the Ministry of Railways on resolving Way leave charges and assured assistance in land identification for new energy projects.

Commitment to Energy Transition Reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to aiding Kerala, Minister Manohar Lal highlighted ongoing efforts to streamline project approvals through a single-window clearance mechanism. The initiatives aim to prepare the state for rising power demand while facilitating its transition to renewable energy sources.