Solar subsidy to be on generation basis

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Solar Energy Policy 2013, which seeks to increase the state’s installed solar power capacity to 500 MW in 2017 and 1500 MW by 2030, intends to make solar water heating system (SWHS) mandatory in industrial buildings, government and private hospitals, resorts and hotels.

The policy, unveiled on Wednesday, speaks of generation-based subsidy instead of the usual capital subsidies for off-grid solar projects. “Generation-based incentives will ensure that the systems are installed, maintained and continue to remain functional,” the Policy states. “The existing capital subsidies will be restructured appropriately,” it adds.

The Policy also identifies the entry of “unscrupulous elements” into the field of solar power as one of the reasons for the low popularity of solar power in the state.

As for grid-connected systems, the policy states that the government will initiate a programme under which all public buildings are provided with generation facilities using appropriate technology options.

“As the load cycle of the government offices match with that of the solar plants, they are fitting cases of solar application,” the policy states. The engineering procurement and construction (EPC) mode of implementation will be replaced by a design-build-operate-and-transfer scheme.

The policy states that grid-connected systems will be promoted for domestic consumers in a phased manner. “This will be one after formulating grid connection standards for low tension (LT) distribution in line with this policy,” it states.