Keralam Power Demand Crosses 6,000 MW for First Time; Minister Assures No Black Outs

Thiruvananthapuram: MInister of Electricity K Krishnankutty has assured that KSEB is taking all necessary measures to manage the unprecedented surge in electricity consumption without resorting to power cuts or load shedding, even as the state records all-time highs in both daily consumption and peak demand.

Keralam's electricity demand crossed the 6,000 MW threshold for the first time in the state's history, with peak evening demand reaching 6,033 MW on Saturday. Daily consumption also hit a new record of 117.15 million units on the same day. The Minister attributed the spike to a combination of factors — the intensifying summer heat driving up air conditioner and fan usage, and a shortage of cooking gas pushing households towards greater use of induction cookers.

He urged the public to consciously reduce electricity usage during peak hours to help ease the strain on the grid.

On the supply side, the Minister said KSEB has approached the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission for permission to enter into long-term power purchase contracts, as procuring adequate quantities through the power exchange has become increasingly difficult. Approval is expected after April 22.

KSEB is currently meeting demand through a combination of domestic generation — primarily from the Idukki hydroelectric project and renewable sources — and large-scale purchases from outside the state. The Minister reaffirmed that despite consumption far outpacing projections, the state has managed to keep the lights on without any restrictions.