The Kerala State Electrical energy Board (KSEB) has obtained the go-ahead from the State authorities on two pumped storage initiatives (PSP) with a mixed capability of 130 megawatts (MW).

The Energy division has given its in-principle nod for the 2 initiatives and the price estimates for setting up them. Collectively, the 2 initiatives will value roughly ₹753 crore to construct.

The Mudirapuzha PSP, the larger of the 2, is designed to have an put in capability of 100 MW and can come up on the Ponmudi reservoir in Idukki district. The challenge is estimated to value ₹573 crore. The 30 MW Manjappara PSP can be established on the Karappuzha reservoir in wayanad district at a value of ₹180 crore.

Based mostly on demand

PSPs function with two reservoirs at completely different elevations. In periods of low demand for electrical energy, the water is pumped into the higher reservoir. When the demand is excessive, the water is launched downstream to drive a turbine within the energy station and generate electrical energy.

In April, the KSEB administration had accredited a proposal to take up the 2 initiatives as the primary of a number of PSPs deliberate in Kerala for augmenting inner energy technology. The 2 initiatives had been subsequently positioned earlier than the federal government for approval.

Initially, the KSEB had proposed a three way partnership (JV) with THDC India Ltd for creating the PSPs. However a draft MoU drawn up for the JV sparked authorized and monetary issues, prompting the State authorities to direct the KSEB to review the potential for implementing them by itself.