Kerala’s Vision 2031: Building a Sustainable and Resilient Power Future

Palakkad: Kerala's Electricity Department  has laid out a clear plan for the future of its power sector, aiming to meet the state’s growing electricity demand while focusing on sustainability and modern infrastructure. The Vision 2031 draft, presented by Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty at the ‘Powerful Keralam’ conclave in Malampuzha, Palakkad highlighted the department's strategy to improve energy generation, integrate new technologies, and build a resilient power system.

As Kerala's electricity demand is expected to rise to 10,000 MW by 2030-31, the state is taking steps to increase its power generation. One of the key areas of focus is hydro-power. The state plans to add 92 MW of small hydro-power and 1,500 MW of large hydro-power over the next few years. Kerala has already commissioned 150.6 MW of hydro-power in the past nine years, with another 187.5 MW from ongoing projects expected to be completed soon. This will help meet the rising demand and ensure a stable power supply.

The state is also working on modernising its existing hydro-power plants to make them more efficient. In addition, Kerala is exploring the possibility of using its thorium deposits for power generation. Although this is still in the early stages, thorium-based energy is considered safer and more sustainable compared to traditional nuclear power.

Alongside increasing generation capacity, the state is prioritising climate resilience in its power infrastructure. The introduction of smart grids is a major part of the plan. Smart grids will allow for better management of energy usage and make it easier to integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, into the system. These grids will also help reduce power losses and improve reliability by providing real-time data on energy consumption and supply.

To support renewable energy, Kerala is also planning to introduce energy storage systems, like large batteries, to store excess energy generated during the day and use it when demand is high. This will help balance the fluctuating supply of renewable energy, making the power system more stable.

The state is also pushing for e-mobility initiatives. As part of its climate goals, Kerala aims to expand its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, making it easier for people to switch to electric cars and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Another key component of the plan is the development of green hydrogen. Kerala plans to establish Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram as hubs for green hydrogen production, a clean fuel made using renewable energy. Green hydrogen can be used in sectors like transportation and industry, helping to reduce carbon emissions.

To fund these ambitious projects, Kerala is looking to attract investments through green bonds and climate finance. These financial tools will help the state secure the necessary capital to bring its plans to life, ensuring that the power sector can grow sustainably while meeting future demands.

Additionally, the state is exploring the potential of hydel tourism. Kerala plans to develop its hydro-power plants into tourism centres, which could generate around Rs. 500 crore in revenue over the next five years. This initiative would allow people to learn about hydro-power generation while promoting local tourism and creating new job opportunities.

With its Vision 2031, Kerala is aiming to build a power infrastructure that not only meets future energy demands but also supports the state’s environmental goals. The plan focuses on using clean energy, improving existing systems, and introducing new technologies to create a reliable, sustainable, and climate-resilient power sector. If successful, Kerala could lead the way in India’s transition to cleaner energy.