State to generate more energy from wind

The State which has already entered the wind energy generation sector is set to improve its position in it. More windmills are to be commissioned at Agali while a new project at Ramakkalmedu is nearing completion. Four windmill machines are in final stages of installation at Agali, where the State government had given sanction to Suzlon, a company engaged in wind power generation, for the project. These machines will be commissioned by the end of April, according to top officials associated with the project. Seven wind mills have already been commissioned by Suzlon at the site where studies had established the feasibility of the project. The windmill project is being completed in accordance with the guidelines of the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission. ANERT was the nodal agency appointed by the State government to give technical sanction for the project. The power generated at the station is being connected to the KSEB sub-station at Agali. The company plans generation of 20 MW electricity at Agali from the 33 windmills of 600 KW capacity each. Thirteen machines have already been sold to entrepreneurs and trade groups. Eight of them have been bought by Kerala-based firms which include a jewellery firm, an umbrella manufacturer and steel entrepreneur. Five machines have been purchased by a Mumbai-based entrepreneur. Two more windmills are in the process of installation. The remaining machines will be installed upon receipt of orders from companies and entrepreneurs.

The windmill project at Ramakkalmedu, being set up by Vestas, is also nearing commissioning stage, according to sources. A few of the windmills are to be commissioned there soon. Apart from contributing to the strengthening of the power position of the State, the windmill projects will add a new phase in power production through internationally accepted renewable energy generation processes that reduce carbon content in the environment. The power generated at the windmill stations is being purchased by the KSEB as per an agreement with the investor, valid for 20 years. Accordingly, the power purchase rate is Rs.3.14 per unit. The meter reading is to be taken every month. The due date of payment will be the 10th day after the billing date. If the KSEB does not pay the amount due within 60 days from the date of billing, it will have to pay penalty at 15 per cent per annum. If the KSEB pays the amount promptly, then a rebate of 2 per cent shall be given to it by the windmill owner.

The Hindu, April 15, 2008

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