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M/s Technopark, a deemed distribution licensee in Thiruvananthapuram, filed a petition seeking approval for its capital investment proposals for the fiscal year 2023-24. The Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) held a hearing on this matter, with representatives from both Technopark and Kerala State Electricity Board Limited (KSEB Ltd) present. Technopark’s petition proposed an investment of ?517.95 lakh, with ?213.63 lakh to be funded through grants and the remaining ?304.32 lakh from its funds. The main projects outlined in the petition included upgrading the 11 kV power distribution system at Phase 1, installing rooftop grid-connected solar PV plants, and setting up a solar plant above a hybrid electric vehicle (EV) charging station. A large portion of the proposed investment, ?434.24 lakh, was intended for the revamp of the 11 kV power distribution system at Technopark Phase 1. Technopark emphasized the need for the upgrade due to the aging infrastructure, increased power demand from new developments, and the goal to ensure a reliable, uninterrupted power supply. KSEB Ltd acknowledged the problems with the existing system, especially frequent cable faults, and suggested methods such as planned trenching for cable laying and monitoring the usage of capital works. KSERC provisionally approved this cost, but with a note to align it with market rates and directed Technopark to secure the government grant balance already approved. Technopark also proposed the installation of solar PV plants. One of the key proposals was for a 35kWp rooftop grid-connected solar PV plant at the Technocity campus, estimated at a cost of ?13.63 lakh. This project was aimed at meeting the Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO). KSEB Ltd noted that the entire expenditure could be covered by government grants. KSERC provisionally approved the cost, urging Technopark to ensure it aligns with MNRE’s benchmark rates for such projects. Another proposal from Technopark involved installing a 15.5 kWp solar plant above a hybrid electric vehicle charging station at Phase 1, with an estimated cost of ?6.45 lakh. Technopark explained that this project would not only help meet the RPO but also encourage EV usage and support the growth of the electric vehicle charging business. KSEB Ltd again pointed out that government funding could cover the entire cost. The Commission provisionally approved this proposal as well, again requiring it to be in line with MNRE rates. Technopark also sought approval for two other solar PV plants: a 25 kWp On-Grid Solar PV Plant at the Park Centre Building and a 78 kWp On-Grid Solar PV plant on the Pump House water tank. The total cost for these two projects was ?63.63 lakh. KSERC noted that the rates used for estimating the cost were higher than the MNRE-approved benchmark rates. The Commission approved the proposal but only at the MNRE benchmark rate. In its final order, the Commission directed Technopark to carry out the projects through competitive bidding. It also instructed Technopark to fund capital investments, excluding grants, from accumulated regulatory surpluses. Technopark was asked to remove any replaced assets from its fixed asset register and submit detailed accounts, including tender documents and bills, during the truing-up process. Furthermore, all approved assets must be geo-tagged and properly documented. |
