Electricity shortage: Power outages to continue in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The State is facing an ongoing electricity shortage, and it looks like power cuts will persist during night times. Many areas experienced outages on Friday night as well, and the uncertainty around power supply continues. It is uncertain whether there will be enough electricity available at night. Thus, it remains unclear how long these restrictions will last.

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) attributes the crisis to higher demand and inadequate rainfall, which has affected power generation. A major issue is the cancellation of long-term contracts by the Regulatory Commission, which previously provided cheap electricity. There is no available power from the exchange to make up for this shortfall.

Currently, electricity is being sold at a high rate of Rs 15 per unit on the market, but the board, already in financial trouble, cannot afford this expense.

The board has stated that a major factor in the shortage is reduced supply from a power station outside Kerala. Notifications about power restrictions are being issued each evening as the situation persists.

Previously, the KSEB had warned that the power situation in the State is a bit precarious, necessitating restrictions on power consumption.

According to KSEB, there is an expected shortage of power ranging from 500 MW to 650 MW during peak hours, i.e., from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Given the constraints regarding the availability of electricity from the power exchange market during these peak hours, the department will be forced to implement power restrictions between 7 pm and 11 pm. .

In light of the power crisis, KSEB has requested all consumers to minimize electricity use during peak hours.