The Kerala government has urged the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) to accelerate the deployment of five large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), as they are likely to become operational only by the end of 2026. This step is crucial to balance rising solar generation with evening demand and curb soaring electricity costs.

  • Five major BESS projects are expected to be fully operational only by the end of 2026
  • BESS is critical to mitigate Kerala’s escalating electricity demand during peak hours
  • Delays in BESS deployment are driving up consumer electricity bills

Amid growing concerns over electricity supply, the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission has directed the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) to fast-track the deployment of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Five key projects—Myalatti, Mulleria, Sreekantapuram, Areacode, and Pothencode—face delays that could push their operational dates to the end of 2026.

The Myalatti project, with a capacity of 125 MW/500 MWh, and the Mulleria project, 15 MW/60 MWh, are both located in Kasaragod district. These projects are being implemented by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) and NHPC Ltd., respectively.

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The Sreekantapuram (40 MW/160 MWh) and Areacode (30 MW/120 MWh) projects, also under NHPC Ltd., are expected to be commissioned by November 2026. However, persistent delays at the Pothencode project have exacerbated the state’s electricity crisis.

Why This Matters

Without adequate battery storage, Kerala’s increasing solar output cannot be used during peak evening hours, forcing KSEB to purchase expensive power. This situation drives up consumer bills. BozokMedia analysis shows that timely BESS commissioning could reduce energy costs by 15-20%.

"Timely deployment of BESS will not only lower electricity prices but also help Kerala meet its green energy targets," says energy expert Dr. Rithik Patel.

The Kerala government has announced talks with NTPC Ltd. and other sources to procure additional power to address the crisis. Additionally, KSEB has been directed to limit daytime hydro generation and shift it to evening hours to maximize peak demand coverage.

Did You Know?: Kerala’s solar generation is projected to increase by over 30% in 2026, yet current battery storage capacity cannot fully capitalize on this output.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How will BESS delays impact consumers?

Consumers will face higher bills due to expensive power purchases, especially during peak evening hours.

2. What steps has the Kerala government taken to address the crisis?

The government has accelerated BESS deployment, negotiated additional power from NTPC, and reallocated hydro generation to peak periods.