Record power consumption in the state; 100 million units were consumed yesterday alone

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the summer intensifying, the power consumption in the state has hit a record high. The power consumption crossed 100 million units yesterday alone. With this, KSEB has directed consumers to use electricity with caution.

5031 MW of electricity was consumed during peak time yesterday (6 pm to 10 pm). The 5024 MW recorded on April 18 of last year was surpassed by this. If things keep on this way, there may be a power outage in the state shortly, forcing the KSEB to borrow electricity from outside.

Meanwhile, the KSEB has warned the government about reintroducing load shedding if the dues remain unpaid. The board also confirmed that they have now adopted all measures to avoid load shedding due to the ongoing exam season.

KSEB informed that if electricity is not purchased by paying in advance, load shedding would be the next option under consideration. As the rains subsided, the water in the dams was also depleted. With the cancellation of long-term contracts, electricity is currently scant and if needed to purchase from open source, the payment should be made in advance, and it requires crores. The board, currently crippled in an economic crisis is fighting penury.