Arrangements made to avoid power cuts in state: Minister

Palakkad: Even as power consumption has been rising sharply across the state, electricity minister K Krishnankutty on Sunday said no load shedding will be implemented. Despite the challenges, govt is trying to avoid power cuts, he added."The gap between power availability and consumption is widening," said Krishnankutty, pointing to a steady rise in daily demand by around 50megawatts (MW) amid soaring temperatures.Kerala is currently facing a shortfall of about 200MW in contracted power supply from other states, a deficit expected to continue for at least a week. "Purchasing electricity from the power exchange at higher rates will impose a heavy financial burden," he said, adding that approval has been sought from the regulatory commission for long-term power purchase agreements. We expect approval by April 22, he added."Currently, there is no situation that warrants load shedding. We have made necessary arrangements," he said.The minister warned that temperatures were unlikely to drop until May, raising concerns in the power sector.He also pointed out that due to an LPG shortage, more people are using induction cookers, which has further increased electricity consumption. Krishnankutty's remarks come as the state records peak electricity usage. On Saturday, the state consumed 117.15 million units, with demand crossing 6,000MW, especially during evening hours. According to Kerala State Electricity Board officials, load regulation of up to 15 minutes during night hours might be required if demand continues to surge.Meanwhile, declining water levels in reservoirs — currently 37% below capacity — are adding to the crisis by affecting hydroelectric generation.