Kerala faces power crisis as night time consumption hits 6000 MW; more power to be purchased

Kochi: With Kerala facing a severe heatwave, electricity demand is set to surge dramatically over the next two months, putting immense pressure on the state’s power infrastructure. Experts warn that night-time electricity demand could reach 6,000 MW, and if dam water is not optimally utilised, the state will be forced to buy more electricity at high costs, worsening the financial burden on the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) and consumers.

Power demand hits record levels

Kerala’s daily electricity consumption has already crossed 100 million units in early March, and may rise to 125 million units as temperature soars.

The highest-ever peak demand was 5,797 MW till May 2, 2023, and this year, projections indicate a 40% increase from January 1 levels, reaching 5,972 MW.

53% of dam water storage remains, which can generate 2,271.33 million units of electricity.

Water management: Key to crisis control

Government regulations require that 10% of dam water must be kept as reserve as on May 31 to prepare for a delayed monsoon.

Out of the current 2,271.33 million units of power generation potential, 414 million units must be set aside, leaving 1,857.33 million units available for consumption.

If 20 million units are generated daily, Kerala can sustain hydropower generation until May 31, reducing dependence on costly electricity imports.

Financial burden of power purchases

Last year, 1,182 million units of water remained unused in dams by May 31, leading to increased power purchases.

Had 700 million units been used, Kerala could have saved Rs 560 crore, considering power purchase costs at Rs 8 per unit.

As Kerala enters peak summer, efficient water management is critical to reduce financial losses and ensure uninterrupted power supply. With electricity demand skyrocketing, authorities must balance hydropower generation and conservation, or face massive power purchase costs and economic strain on the state.