In a significant move towards sustainable energy and transportation, Kerala has earmarked a substantial budget of over Rs 125 billion. The allocation includes Rs 0.9 billion for the initiation of green hydrogen valley projects and more than Rs 124 billion for the development of green transport corridors.
The Rs 0.9 billion budget for green hydrogen valley initiatives will facilitate the establishment of three hydrogen valley platforms, spanning the entire hydrogen value chain, from production to distribution and transportation. Notably, two green hydrogen valleys are planned for Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi, with the Department of Science and Technology actively engaged in the Kochi valley proposal, and preparations underway for the Vizhinjam project.
In a collaborative effort to advance research and development in sustainable energy, the European Commission and 23 other nations have launched Mission Innovation, an initiative supported by the Kerala Department of Science and Technology (DST), which is currently accepting applications from organizations to establish hydrogen valleys.
Furthermore, Kerala has ambitious plans to transform major transport corridors, including the west coast canal, coastal routes, and hill highways, into environmentally sustainable trade corridors. The west coast canal project, estimated at Rs 24 billion, includes a Rs 3 billion allocation for land acquisition. Meanwhile, the green transport corridor project, with a total budget of Rs 124 billion, envisions a hydrogen and electric vehicle charging infrastructure network along the Vizhinjam to Kochi corridor.
The coastal highway project, expected to conclude in 2027, spans from Poovar in the Thiruvananthapuram district to Thalapady in the Kasaragod district, connecting key ports like Kollam, Vizhinjam, Vallarpadam, and several smaller ports. The acquisition process for approximately 68 pieces of land, covering a combined area of 181 acres along the coastal highway, is already underway. The hill highway project is anticipated to be completed by 2026.
To encourage investment and economic growth, the Kerala state government is actively identifying potential areas for development along the west coast canal and coastal roadways, with plans for transit-oriented development currently in progress. These initiatives mark a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Kerala’s energy and transportation sectors.
