The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has decided to purchase 75 megawatt wind power from Adani Group.
This 75 megawatt is out of the 300 megawatt wind power purchased from external sources. With this, the government will have to pay Rs 2025 crore in 25 years. A large share of the remaining 225 megawatt also may be purchased from Adani Group, according to media reports.
The Electricity Regulatory Commission had asked the states to use non-conventional energy sources other than solar energy. Following this, Kerala is purchasing wind power from Adani Group as directed by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
Kerala, as per the contract with SECI, will be purchasing 81 crore units of power at a rate of Rs 2.9 per unit and 41.3 crore units at a rate of Rs 2.82 per unit. This costs Rs 8785 crore for 25 years. Only 78.7 crore units of non-conventional energy need to be bought as per the direction of Regulatory Commission. But 123 crore units of power will be purchased as per the contract.
Meanwhile, KSEB chairman NS Pillai said Kerala requires more electricity during the current situation. Purchase of wind power is one of the solutions to address current demand. The tender procedures are transparent and power will be purchased from those who quote the lowest price.
Permission of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission is required for purchasing power. REC certificate cannot be obtained as Kerala faces a shortage of 200-300 megawatt power. This is purchased from power exchange paying Rs 6-7 per unit, NS Pillai said.