Electrical Industry in Kerala

The electrical industry in Kerala comprises government-owned public sector undertakings and large private enterprises. They produce power equipment, cables, and consumer goods. There are five PSUs working under Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Kerala in the category of establishments engaged in the manufacture of electrical equipment.

■ Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Co. Ltd (KEL)

KEL is a public sector undertaking that manufactures various engineering products required by strategically important organizations such as the Indian Army, Air Force, Railways, and the Space Research Organization. Sales outlets operate in major cities for products manufactured at its units across Kerala.

■ United Electrical Industries Ltd

This establishment is known as the 'Meter Company'. It began operations in 1950, becoming the first factory in India to manufacture electricity meters for domestic use. Production commenced in collaboration with the prominent English company, Aron Meters Ltd. It became a state public sector undertaking in 1957. Today, in addition to electromechanical and static domestic electricity meters, it manufactures motor starters, contactors, and galvanized products.

■ Traco Cable Company Ltd

Traco Cable Company commenced operations in 1964 in collaboration with Kalsi Engineering Company of Canada. It is one of the two companies in India that manufacture telephone cables. Keeping pace with technological advancements, Traco has evolved from manufacturing paper-insulated cables to producing superior-quality jelly-filled cables. The company also manufactures electric cables and wires required by the railways and electricity boards of various states.

■ Transformers and Electricals Kerala Ltd (TELK)

TELK was established in 1963 in collaboration with Hitachi Limited of Japan to manufacture high-voltage electrical equipment. Production began in 1966 with power transformers, and the company subsequently expanded its manufacturing range to include instrument transformers, SF6 gas circuit breakers, and shunt and series reactors.

■ Kel Electrical Machines Ltd (KEL EML)

The KEL Electrical Machines Ltd is a Public Sector Undertaking fully owned by the Kerala State government. KEL EML manufactures and markets products like general purpose and special brushless alternators, DG set and Induction Motors. The major customers are BHEL, Indian Railways and Defence.