KSEB cautions on possible power constraints until Jun 30 amid rising demand

Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 17 (PTI) The KSEB on Wednesday said the state may have to impose limited power restrictions between 6 pm and midnight until June 30 due to a sharp electricity shortage caused by rising demand and reduced availability across the country.

In a Facebook post, the Kerala State Electricity Board said the shortage was linked to the strengthening of the El Nino phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which has led to higher temperatures and increased electricity consumption nationwide.

It also noted that Kerala is now required to return power borrowed from other states during March and April under an agreement that takes effect from June 16.

“Although the monsoon arrived in the state on June 1, temperatures have not fallen significantly

as rainfall has not strengthened enough,” the post said.

It added that while the expected peak demand was 4,100 MW, it had risen to around 4,900 MW, with electricity consumption increasing by 10 million units.

The board said that despite receiving 1,700 MW from domestic generation, 1,701 MW from central generating stations, and 612 MW through long-term contracts, the state is expected to face a shortfall of about 900 MW between June 16 and June 30.

It added that electricity availability on power exchanges has dropped to just five per cent, making procurement difficult.

KSEB said efforts to secure additional power through medium-term agreements had failed due to a nationwide shortage.

An emergency meeting chaired by Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph and attended by senior officials, including Power Secretary and KSEB Chairman Dr M G Rajamanikyam, reviewed the situation.

The minister directed officials to procure the maximum possible electricity through daily contracts and authorised KSEB to impose essential restrictions if required to maintain the stability of the power grid.

“In view of the severe crisis in electricity availability, limited power restrictions may be required between 6 pm and midnight until June 30,” the KSEB said. PTI TGB SSK