Kerala’s largest hydroelectric power station — the Moolamattom Powerhouse, part of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project — will undergo a complete shutdown for one month starting November 11 for critical maintenance and repair work.
According to the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), the temporary closure is expected to cause a power shortfall of around 600 megawatts (MW) across the state. Officials, however, assure that the interruption is temporary and essential to ensure the long-term efficiency and safety of the facility.
Despite the expected power gap, Kerala may find some relief as northeast monsoon rains continue to boost water levels in the Idukki dam reservoir, ensuring ample water storage once the powerhouse resumes operation.
Situated 46 kilometers from the Idukki dam, deep beneath the Nadukani Hills, Moolamattom stands as India’s largest underground hydroelectric power station, with an installed capacity of 780 MW. The powerhouse forms the heart of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project, which also includes the iconic Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni, and Kulamavu dams, along with seven diversion dams.
Water from the Idukki reservoir flows through a network of tunnels and penstock pipes near Kulamavu to power the turbines at Moolamattom before being released into the Thodupuzhayar River.
KSEB officials confirmed that all maintenance, inspection, and safety upgrades will be completed within the scheduled timeframe. Once operations restart, the powerhouse is expected to restore full generation capacity, stabilizing Kerala’s electricity supply and boosting hydroelectric output.
