The Hindu : Business : State lags behind in harnessing wind energy

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Saturday, May 12, 2007
ePaper

Business

Business

State lags behind in harnessing wind energy

R. Ramabhadran Pillai

Government approves wind-energy project at Ramakkalmedu

KOCHI: The Government nod for a wind-energy project at Ramakkalmedu in Idukki district, though belated, is a step in the right direction. Wind energy has been recognised world over as one of the most vital sources of renewable energy and several States in India have commissioned projects to generate power from wind.

A study conducted by the Chennai-based Centre for Wind Energy Technology at Ramakkalmedu had found the wind speed there suitable for setting up wind turbines for generating power. The centre had conducted wind-resource assessment at a few other areas in Kerala, such as Kuttikkanam, Panchalimedu, Pushpagiri, Perampukettimedu, Kalasammedu and Sakkulathumedu in Idukki district; Neendakara in Kollam; Ponmudi and Vizhinjam in Thiruvananthapuram; Nallasingam, Kanjikkode and Gopalapuram in Palakkad; Pasavadigumpe in Kasaragod; and Kadampuzha in Malappuram.

The assessment concluded that Kerala has the potential to generate 420 MW to 740 MW from wind projects. The break-up of the possible power generation was as follows: Agali area: 150-200 MW; Palakkad gap: 100-300 MW; Idukki high ranges: 150-200 MW; and Ponmudi: 20-40 MW.

Kerala has been lagging behind in harnessing wind energy, while its neighbouring State Tamil Nadu has advanced much in the sector. Tamil Nadu tops the list of States harnessing wind power with more than 3,000 MW being generated from wind. Maharashtra generates more than 1,200 MW, while Karnataka generates more than 650 MW.

It is followed by Rajasthan with more than 380 MW, Gujarat with more than 370 MW and Andhra Pradesh with more than 120 MW, according to the centre.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Business