Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 19 (PTI) The revised Kerala Budget 2026-27 seeks to encourage the large-scale adoption of renewable energy, with Rs 100 crore allocated for the purpose.
Chief Minister V D Satheesan, in his maiden Budget speech, said that the prevailing global energy crisis, ecological challenges and severe environmental pollution caused by fossil fuels necessitate the adoption of renewable energy sources.
He said Kerala has numerous reservoirs that are well-suited for the deployment of floating solar panel systems.
The CM referred to pumped hydro energy storage as a promising technology for Kerala’s future energy landscape.
“By converting renewable energy into green ammonia, green methanol and green hydrogen, Kerala can evolve into a Green Hydrogen Hub,” he said.
“An amount of Rs 100 crore is allocated in the Budget for renewable energy, green hydrogen and alternative energy sources,” the CM added.
Additionally, large-scale battery storage systems will be installed to meet peak power demand, and measures will be taken to establish community-based battery energy storage systems in all panchayats, he said.
The announcement comes at a time when the state is facing an acute shortage of electricity.
According to KSEB, electricity availability on power exchanges has declined sharply, making purchases difficult, while efforts to secure additional supplies through medium-term agreements have failed because of a nationwide shortage.
The CM said that Rs 1,284.75 crore has been allocated to the energy sector.
Of this, Rs 1,218.71 crore has been earmarked for the Kerala State Electricity Board through various funding sources for energy-sector development, while Rs 66.04 crore has been allocated for non-conventional and renewable energy projects.
A scheme titled ‘100 per cent Energy Self-Sufficient Cooperative Societies’ will be implemented to promote the participation of the cooperative sector in harnessing Kerala’s renewable energy potential, he said in his speech. PTI HMP SSK
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