Kerala is facing a severe power shortage driven by an electricity demand increase of more than 1,000 MW compared to the same period last year, alongside a decline in generation, Electricity Minister Joseph announced.
Speaking to reporters, Joseph stated that he held special discussions with the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) chairman and board members to address the situation. He indicated that power restrictions may need to be enforced across multiple time slots, as adjusting cut schedules for a single time period is insufficient to manage the supply deficit.
According to the minister, increased reliance on air conditioners and fans, combined with the growing adoption of electric vehicles, has significantly pushed up consumption. Peak demand hours have also shifted toward late night, as residents routinely charge electric vehicles after returning from work.
Joseph highlighted broader supply constraints, noting that a national coal shortage prompted the central government to issue formal communications to Kerala and other states. High demand and falling generation nationwide have reduced available supply in power exchange markets, leading to steep price increases.
KSEB has been unable to secure sufficient electricity through short-term purchases in day-ahead and real-time markets due to a lack of available supply. Joseph explained that short-term long-term power purchase agreements cannot provide immediate relief, as those contracts require public tenders, eligible supplier participation, regulatory approvals, and several months to process.
The state generates only about 25 percent of its electricity requirements internally and has not initiated a major power project since the construction of the Idukki hydroelectric project, Joseph said. Although solar generation provides cheaper power during daylight hours, Kerala currently lacks adequate infrastructure to store daytime solar energy for use during peak night hours.
To build storage capacity, the state is pursuing battery energy storage projects at Mylatti and Mulleria in Kasaragod, Sreekandapuram in Kannur, Pothencode in Thiruvananthapuram, and Areekode in Malappuram. Preparations are also underway for a 500 MW Battery Energy Storage System project at Brahmapuram in Ernakulam district, with construction set to begin once land clearance is finalized.
Sources
– [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/keralam-trying-hard-to-tide-over-power-shortage-says-minister-joseph-101789105175738.html)
Source: Hindustan Times – India News
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Story synopsis gathered from: Hindustan Times – India News — source
