Power cuts to continue; no more than two outages in a locality, consumers to receive SMS alerts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala’s power crisis is unlikely to have a permanent solution unless the state receives more rain or temperatures come down. Even at higher prices, electricity is not always available from the power exchange during peak hours. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has now introduced a system to alert consumers in advance about power cuts. Notifications about power restrictions will be sent to mobile phones through SMS.

Following a successful trial in Thiruvananthapuram district, the system will be implemented across the state from today. The KSEB management has also instructed its offices to ensure that power supply is not disrupted more than twice in a particular locality.

The power-cut schedule has been prepared based on calculations of how the shortage should be managed if the State Load Despatch Centre records a deficit of up to 600 MW. The alert system will operate through DMS software, along with an app. Timings will be fixed based on feeders and substations. SMS alerts will be sent to consumers from the respective section offices, with the aim of providing the information as early as possible.

The power crisis is expected to continue throughout this month. Under existing power-sharing agreements, the KSEB will continue supplying electricity to other states until the end of this month. The situation may get some temporary relief once these agreements expire, but it could worsen if temperatures rise.

Power is not readily available from the power exchange as hot weather continues across most states. Higher nighttime temperatures in Kerala are also contributing to increased electricity consumption.

Kerala faces worst power shortage in South India

Among the southern states, Kerala is facing the most severe power shortage. According to data from the Southern Regional Load Despatch Centre, the combined peak-hour demand of southern states on Wednesday was 58,778 MW, while available power stood at 56,216 MW. The figures indicate a shortage of 3,827 MW.

Kerala recorded a 14% shortage during peak hours. The shortage was 9.48% in Andhra Pradesh, 9.5% in Karnataka and 4.41% in Tamil Nadu.