Article

The Idukki Hydroelectric Project in Kerala completed 50 years of operation in February 2026, marking a significant milestone in the state's energy history. The project consists of three dams and an underground powerhouse with a capacity of 780 MW.

As discussions for an extension project to add 800 MW commence, concerns grow over the impacts of climate change and ecological sustainability on hydropower. Increasing rainfall variability and past flood events illustrate the challenges of managing reservoir levels. Future energy strategies may focus on optimizing existing infrastructure and integrating solar power with hydropower rather than building new dams.