KSEB scouting for validation agency for CDM projects

Our Bureau

Kozhikode, March 1

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is on the look-out for a Designated Operational Entity (DOE) for validation of the three small hydro-electric pilot projects in the State being taken up for implementation under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

The board has already appointed SMEC International of Australia for providing advisory services for registration of the projects under CDM.

The validation by an independent agency accredited by the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change is mandatory for registration of the projects under CDM.

Pilot projects

One of the three proposed pilot projects is Chathankottunada-II with an installed capacity of six megawatts and an annual generation potential of 14.76 million units.

Another project, Vilangad small hydro-electric project, will have an installed capacity of 7.5 megawatts and will generate 22.63 million units annually.

The Kakkayam small hydro-electric project, the third pilot project, is being developed on the right bank of the existing Kuttiyadi Additional Extension Scheme. It will have an installed capacity of four megawatts with an annual generation potential of 9.68 million units.

All the projects have been conceived as run-of-the-river schemes, which will ensure that there will be no damage to the ecosystem in the surrounding areas, according to KSEB officials.

Besides, the projects are expected to achieve significant amount of Certified Emission Reduction that can be sold in the international carbon market, thereby improving the financial viability of the projects.