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

Kerala's power board KSEB has warned of potential electricity cuts between 6 pm and midnight until June 30 due to a severe supply shortage caused by the El Niño phenomenon and the return of borrowed power. The state faces a nearly 900-megawatt deficit despite maximizing available power sources.





Quick Facts
Who
Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB)
What
Electricity supply shortage announced
When
June 16-30, 2026
Where
Kerala state
- Electricity supply shortage announced
- Power cuts warned between 6 pm and midnight
- Emergency meeting convened to address crisis
- Deep power contracts attempted but failed
- Limited power cuts implemented on June 16
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.
Why This Matters
This power crisis directly impacts millions of Kerala residents' daily lives, affecting households, businesses, and essential services during peak evening hours. Understanding the scale of the shortage (900 MW deficit) and its drivers (El Niño, borrowed power repayment) helps consumers prepare for potential outages and plan accordingly. The state's emergency response—authorizing rationing measures—signals an urgent need for long-term power infrastructure solutions and diversified energy sourcing.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireLimited power cuts implemented between 9 pm and midnight in parts of Kerala
Jun 18, 2026
WireManorama Online publishes warning about electricity shortage