Mon Oct 28 15:58:39 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Aims for Renewable Energy Dominance, Inaugurates Thottiyar Hydro Project

**Idukki, Kerala – October 28, 2024** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the 40 MW Thottiyar hydro project at Lower Periyar in Idukki on Monday, reiterating the state’s commitment to transitioning to a fully renewable energy-based system by 2040.

“We aim to make Kerala a leader in sustainable energy,” said Mr. Vijayan, highlighting the state’s growing power demand, which currently stands at 4,500 to 5,000 MW per day, reaching 5,700 MW during peak summer months.

Since the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government took office, the state has already added 48.55 MW of hydel power capacity and 910 MW of solar power. The Chief Minister announced plans to achieve an impressive installed capacity of 10,000 MW by 2030.

Further bolstering the state’s energy infrastructure, Mr. Vijayan revealed plans to set up coal power plants outside Kerala, with Prime Ministerial assurance of coal availability. The state is also actively promoting wind power generation, aiming for a 2,600 MW capacity, building upon the existing 71.275 MW.

The Thottiyar project, with an estimated annual generation of 99 million units, has been constructed at a cost of ₹188 crore. The project features two generators with 10 MW and 30 MW capacities.

“The state is committed to strengthening its transmission network,” added Mr. Vijayan, emphasizing the completion of the Transgrid project and the ongoing second phase, as well as the implemented green corridor project.

The event was attended by Power Minister K. Krishnankutty, Water Resources Minister Roshy Augustine, and other dignitaries.

Read More