The Leader of Opposition in Thiruvananthapuram, V D Satheesan, has expressed strong opposition to a draft amendment related to renewable energy regulations, specifically targeting solar power plants in the state. The proposed amendment, which aims to regulate solar power generation, has been criticized by Satheesan for its stringent and impractical conditions. According to the draft amendment, solar panels with a capacity of 3 kilowatts or more would require a three-phase connection, while those producing 5 kilowatts of solar power would need to store 30% of it in batteries.
Satheesan has argued that these conditions would severely impede solar power generation in the state, ultimately forcing all solar plants to shut down. He has also taken issue with the proposal to levy a surcharge of Rs 1 per unit of electricity generated, which would be paid to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB). Furthermore, the amendment’s recommendation to implement net metering for those producing above 3 kilowatts has been criticized as unfair.
One of the most contentious aspects of the draft amendment is the requirement to use batteries from specific brands, which are reportedly unavailable in the market. Satheesan has accused the government and the Electricity Regulatory Commission of promoting corruption by favoring private interests over the needs of the people. He has demanded that the proposal be withdrawn immediately, citing its potential to cripple the solar power sector in the state.
The opposition leader’s criticism of the draft amendment highlights the need for policymakers to reconsider the regulations and ensure that they promote the growth of renewable energy in the state. The solar power sector has been gaining momentum in recent years, and the proposed amendment could potentially undermine this progress. By listening to the concerns of stakeholders and revising the draft amendment, the government can create a more conducive environment for solar power generation and help the state achieve its renewable energy goals.