KSEBL approves Rs 648 crore capex plan

The Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEBL) has approved a capital expenditure plan of Rs 647.8 crore for the 2026-27 financial year. The plan focuses on strengthening transmission and distribution networks, supporting energy storage development, and expanding smart metering and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

KSEBL has allocated Rs 117.5 crore for transmission works and Rs 166.9 crore for distribution upgrades. Within the transmission segment, Rs 598.75 crore has been assigned to the ongoing TransGrid 2.0 programme for intra-state grid modernisation, along with Rs 463.83 crore for routine system strengthening initiatives.

For distribution enhancement, Rs 127 crore has been provided under the Dyuthi scheme. The plan also sets aside Rs 100 crore for statewide smart meter deployment and Rs 52 crore for installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. To aid renewable energy integration, Rs 17 crore has been reserved for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Rs 1.7 crore for detailed project reports (DPRs) for Pumped Storage Projects (PSPs). The generation segment has received Rs 84.9 crore.

In addition, the board has approved a revised capital outlay of Rs 478.975 crore for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

In alignment with the state’s broader energy transition goals, the new Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (Renewable Energy and Related Matters) Regulations, 2025 set ambitious Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) and Energy Storage Obligation (ESO) targets for obligated entities, including distribution licensees like KSEBL. As per the regulations, the minimum RPO target for the financial year 2026-27 is set at 46% of total consumption, comprising 2.80% from Hydro (HPO), 1.80% from Wind (WPO), and 41.40% from Other Renewable sources. Simultaneously, a 1.50% Energy Storage Obligation (ESO) is mandated for the same period, requiring that at least 85% of the stored energy be sourced from renewable sources. These regulatory targets underscore the strategic importance of KSEBL’s investments in grid modernisation, storage systems, and EV infrastructure to ensure compliance and facilitate a sustainable energy future for Kerala.

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