Sleepless nights ahead! KSEB extends power cut hours; 'With You' app to check details

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala State Electricity Board extended the duration of power restrictions in the state. Power restrictions will now be in effect from 6:45 PM to 12:45 AM; previously, the restrictions lasted until 12:30 AM. Given the inability to resolve the power crisis, these restrictions are likely to continue throughout the month.

Consumers can check the power restriction schedule via KSEB's 'WITH YOU' app. A trial run conducted in Thiruvananthapuram district today was successful, and the system will be implemented statewide by tomorrow afternoon.

Yesterday, electricity consumption rose to 95 million units, an increase compared to previous days. Supply from central power stations has declined. Hydroelectric generation was ramped up, and 2.79 million units were obtained on loan from Madhya Pradesh; however, such supplies cannot be guaranteed daily. Another arrangement involves a contract securing 200 MW of power; however, electricity borrowed under this scheme must be returned. On Wednesday, 3.4 million units were returned.

The debt can only be cleared if payments are made throughout the month. With dam water levels at just 63 per cent, it is not possible to settle the debt through hydroelectric power generation. Furthermore, there are no short-term contracts in place to cover peak-hour demand. Meanwhile, a supply deficit of over 600 MW persisted yesterday. Although permission was sought to enter into contracts for 100 MW (post-12 PM) and 25 MW (for both day and night), the Regulatory Commission has not yet issued an order. Consequently, the power cuts are likely to continue.