Karnataka's Power Surge: Navigating Rising Energy Demands

Karnataka is grappling with a significant increase in electricity demand, surpassing last year's peak figures. Officials cite rising temperatures and increased agricultural activities as major contributors. Despite challenges, measures are underway to ensure stable power supply, including sourcing electricity from other states and exploring sustainable energy solutions.

Karnataka is experiencing an unprecedented surge in electricity demand, exceeding 18,000MW in February and March, according to Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department. Projections for April estimate a demand increase to 18,500MW, far surpassing last year's peak of 17,220MW.

In a recent press briefing, Gupta, alongside BESCOM Managing Director N Shivashankara and KPCL Managing Director Pankaj Kumar Pandey, attributed the demand spike to rising temperatures and abundant rainfall, prompting farmers to cultivate additional crops. Despite the heightened demand, officials assure that the state is prepared to meet energy needs.

Strategic agreements have been established to import electricity from Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, ensuring a stable supply during peak periods. Measures such as daily three-phase power to farmers and solar-powered pump sets are being implemented to support sustainable energy consumption amidst technical challenges like transformer overload and maintenance issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)