Kerala Power Board Warns of Electricity Cuts Until June 30 Amid Supply Crisis

Kerala's State Electricity Board (KSEB) has issued a warning that power cuts may be necessary between 6 pm and midnight until June 30 due to a severe electricity supply shortage affecting the state. The crisis stems from multiple factors: the El Niño phenomenon has elevated atmospheric temperatures across India, significantly increasing electricity demand, while the state simultaneously faces the obligation to return power borrowed from other states during March and April. KSEB attempted to secure deep contracts for additional power supplies but these efforts failed due to a nationwide electricity crisis triggered by El Niño conditions.

Electricity demand in Kerala is projected to reach approximately 4,900 megawatts, exceeding the initially expected 4,100 megawatts. Even with domestic generation of 1,700 megawatts, supply from central generating stations providing 1,701 megawatts, and long-term contracts delivering 612 megawatts, the state faces a deficit of nearly 900 megawatts during the June 16-30 period. The situation has worsened as monsoon rains have not been strong enough to reduce atmospheric temperatures, and electricity consumption has increased by 10 million units. Power availability at electricity exchanges has dropped to just 5 percent due to these exceptional circumstances.

An emergency meeting convened by Kerala's power minister directed officials to maximize electricity procurement through daily market contracts. The meeting authorized KSEB to implement necessary power restrictions if the shortage becomes unmanageable. Limited power cuts were already implemented on the night of June 16, between 9 pm and midnight in certain parts of the state, signaling the beginning of potential rationing measures throughout the critical period.