Minister K Krishnankutty slams opposition to hydropower projects as load shedding returns

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Electricity Minister K. Krishnankutty stated that the refusal to allow new hydroelectric projects is what led Kerala into its current power crisis. Speaking to the media following the announcement of load shedding, the Minister emphasised that increasing domestic production is the only way forward and that the trend of opposing hydropower projects for various reasons must come to an end.

"Our only salvation lies in increasing production. However, you will not allow a single hydel project to be implemented," the Minister remarked sharply. He added that the current situation was primarily due to "nature’s betrayal." He further explained that heatwaves and wars cannot be foreseen, though he noted that approval for 250 MW has recently been secured. Clarifying that there had been no formal restrictions until now, he mentioned that current disruptions are merely natural regulations caused by overloading. He also expressed happiness over today’s rainfall, noting it would be beneficial.

Load shedding restrictions

Following record-breaking electricity consumption in the state, KSEB has decided to implement a half-hour load shedding period between 6:00 PM and 12:00 AM. This immediate measure was necessitated by daily consumption soaring to 115 million units.

Key Guidelines for the Public:

• Strict regulation of ACs and other high-power appliances during peak hours is mandatory.
• Charging of electric vehicles and the use of induction cookers must be completely avoided between 6:00 PM and 12:00 AM.
• AC usage should be limited to essential needs only, with temperatures maintained between 24°C and 26°C.

Underlying causes of the crisis

A high-level meeting by KSEB evaluated that extreme summer heat and a lack of rainfall have severely impacted domestic power generation. Additionally, the shortage of cooking gas—a byproduct of the Iran conflict—led to a surge in the use of induction cookers, significantly spiking the electrical load. The growth rate of power demand this year has far exceeded the expected average.

To manage this unexpected surge, there are indications that "Peak Load Management" or "Load Restrictions" may continue, with power cuts lasting 10 to 30 minutes occurring up until 2:00 AM in the coming days.