Kerala has recorded consecutive days of record electricity consumption and peak demand amid sweltering weather conditions, the state’s power minister said on Sunday, as the state-run electricity board plans to take measures to procure power and avoid load shedding.
On Saturday, daily energy consumption reached 117.15 million units, while peak demand reached 6,033 megawatts, the highest number in the state’s history. The previous day, daily consumption and peak demand hit all-time highs of 116.1 million units and 6,013 megawatts, respectively.
These numbers gain importance against the backdrop of the continuing heat wave in Kerala and the lack of monsoon rainfall.
According to India Meteorological Department figures, the state recorded 59 mm of rainfall against the normal of 95.6 mm between March 1 and April 19, which is a 38% deficiency. 10 of the state’s 14 districts have recorded rainfall deficit so far during this period. The heat wave is expected to continue until the first week of May.
The peak in energy consumption in the state comes as residents of the state resort to using cooling and air conditioning devices, especially in the late evening and night hours.
State Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty told reporters on Sunday that the state is facing an additional daily power demand of about 50 MW due to increased consumption.
While saying that load shedding and enforcement of power outages seem imminent, the minister clarified that the government and the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) are taking emergency measures to procure power from suppliers in other states and avoid such a situation.
“KSEB has sought permission from the Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) to enter into long-term agreements with suppliers from other states. We expect the permission to be granted by April 22,” Krishnankutty said. We have made adequate arrangements to avoid load shedding.”
He added that with cooking gas supplies cut off in several places due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, people resorting to using induction stoves has also led to a significant rise in electricity consumption.
The Minister urged the general public to reduce the use of high voltage appliances and lights between 6pm and 11pm in order to control energy consumption.
