Sabarimala, Kerala’s renowned pilgrimage zone, is moving toward sustainability with a major step. By the next pilgrimage season, the area, including the sacred hill shrine, will operate on solar power by installing a 2.5 MW solar plant. This shift targets reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) has collaborated with Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) for the project. Recently, CIAL’s Managing Director, S. Suhas, and a team visited the site and discussed the plan with TDB officials.
The team will provide technical support without any charges and is expected to finalize the detailed project report (DPR) by March 31.
The project, costing ₹12 crore, includes the installation of solar panels on key structures such as the Annadana Mandapam and Valiya Nadapanthal.
A private bank will sponsor the funding. This initiative will significantly lower TDB’s annual electricity expenses, which currently stand at ₹15 crore. Excess power generated will feed into the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) grid, which ensures a reliable power supply even at night.
TDB’s earlier solar plant installation at its headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram reduced monthly electricity costs from over ₹50,000 to just a few thousand rupees. Inspired by this success, solar panels will also be installed at 26 other temples managed by the board, including Pampa and Nilakkal.
This solar transition at Sabarimala sets an example for other institutions, which reflects a commitment to renewable energy and promises a sustainable future for the state.
Source:
- https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=1466245&u=
- https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/solar-energy-to-power-sabarimala-pilgrimage-from-next-season-onwards/article69123684.ece
- https://www.constructionworld.in/energy-infrastructure/power-and-renewable-energy/tdb-plans-solar-power-plant-installation-at-sabarimala/67905
