High power consumption: KSEB warns of restrictions in Kerala, asks users to avoid electric cooking

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has warned that partial power restrictions may be required after 7 pm on Monday if it is unable to procure the required quantity of electricity through the power exchange.

In a statement, the board said electricity consumption in Kerala has increased significantly compared with previous years due to the rainfall deficit caused by the El Nino phenomenon and comparatively high atmospheric temperatures.

The KSEB said the dry weather conditions in the state have contributed to the rise in demand, while the reduced rainfall has affected the availability situation.

Power exchange availability declines as demand rises across India

The board said the availability of electricity through the power exchange has reduced as power demand has increased across the country.

With dry weather continuing in Kerala, electricity consumption on Monday is expected to increase by around 300 to 400 MW compared with previous days, the KSEB said.

"If the required quantity of electricity is not available through the power exchange, partial power restrictions may be required in the state after 7 pm today (13.07.2026)," the board said.

KSEB asks consumers to avoid electric cooking after 7 pm

Meanwhile, the KSEB has urged consumers to avoid using electricity for cooking after 7 pm, citing the benefits of reducing power consumption during peak hours.

In a Facebook post on Monday, the board said avoiding electric cooking after 7 pm could have multiple benefits, including reducing electricity bills.

The post also pointed out that a major share of the electricity available during night hours comes from coal-based thermal power plants. Reducing electricity usage during this period, it said, would help in environmental conservation.

Board suggests shifting cooking schedules to reduce evening load

Along with the post, the KSEB shared an image carrying the message, "Planning is good for everything, isn’t it?"

The image suggested shifting electric cooking schedules to earlier hours and reducing the use of induction cookers and ovens after 7 pm.

It said: "Let us do electric cooking earlier. Let us give rest to induction cookers and ovens after 7 pm. Let us conserve electricity and protect nature."

The KSEB's message urged consumers to plan their electricity usage and reduce dependence on high-power appliances during the evening hours.