Thiruvananthapuram: Due to the severe economic crisis and lack of planning, KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) is becoming another KSRTC, said Chairman Dr. Biju Prabhakar. "Even during the monsoon season, electricity supply is often inadequate. If this is the current situation, there is no doubt that Kerala will face acute power shortages in the coming years. Without policy changes, such as accepting investments from the public and fast-tracking projects through private partnerships, it will be impossible to save KSEB," he said.

These comments were made in the draft suggestions provided to officers' organizations regarding the proposed reforms for KSEB. Reform proposals were presented at a meeting held the previous day. Associations were given time until December 10 to provide feedback, including on the restructuring of KSEB employees.

Dr. Biju Prabhakar explained that KSEB's daily expenses require taking overdrafts at high interest rates, amounting to up to ₹400 crore per month. The average monthly revenue is ₹1,750 crore, while the expenditure is ₹1,950 crore. ₹900 crore is needed every month to purchase electricity, and ₹300 crore is required to repay loans.

Darkness Looms Over Kerala

Since the start of the monsoon season in June this year, there has been a shortfall of 500 MW on three days and 1,000 MW on one day. If this is the situation despite the heavy rainfall this year, there is no doubt that Kerala will face power shortages in the coming years.

The cost of importing electricity this year is expected to be ₹14,000 crore. The current company, Renewable Power Corporation, should be renamed Kerala State Green Energy Corporation. Investments and bonds should be raised from KSEB employees, industrial consumers, and the public. For this, a public-private partnership model similar to the 'CIAL' model should be established. Profits could be shared with investors from the third year onwards.

Private Partnership in Projects

For small hydroelectric projects below 25 MW, preference will be given to local bodies, cooperative banks, and startups for implementation. For projects above 25 MW, funds should be raised from other sources. The projected cost for implementing the planned projects within the next seven years is ₹45,000 crore