Energy Minister Confirms Adequate Power Availability Despite Rising Demand
As Bengaluru prepares for the scorching summer months, concerns about power shortages and potential load shedding have surfaced. However, the Karnataka government has assured residents that there will be no power cuts, even as electricity demand is expected to rise significantly.
Karnataka Ready to Meet Growing Power Demand
Energy Minister KJ George, after reviewing the state’s power supply and generation capabilities, reassured citizens that Karnataka is well-prepared to handle the increasing electricity demand. As per reports, the state has already secured additional power sources to ensure an uninterrupted power supply.
Currently, Karnataka has an installed power capacity of 34,000 MW, and as of February 27, the peak load reached 17,874 MW without any supply disruptions. Compared to last year, the state’s daily electricity demand has surged by 2,000 MW, but the government remains confident in meeting these needs.
Additional Power Sourced from NTPC & Energy Banking System
To further strengthen power availability, Karnataka has secured additional electricity from the NTPC plant in Kudgi, Vijayapura. Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of the Energy Department, stated that Karnataka has obtained an extra 50% power share from NTPC’s unallocated quota.
Moreover, Karnataka continues its energy banking agreements with northern states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Under this system:
- Uttar Pradesh supplies between 100 MW and 1,275 MW based on Karnataka’s requirements.
- Punjab provides a steady 300 MW daily.
- Karnataka will return the same amount of power to these states during the monsoon months when local demand decreases.
Additionally, the government is planning to procure 1,000 MW of power on a long-term basis at a cost of ₹6.75 to ₹6.85 per unit to ensure stability in the future.
Storage Facilities to Strengthen Power Reserves
Despite being a power-surplus state, Karnataka faces challenges in storing excess electricity. To address this issue, the state is investing in advanced storage solutions, including:
- Pumped storage projects at Sharavathi, Varahi, and JSW in Ballari.
- A battery storage facility at Pavagada in Tumakuru district.
These initiatives will help Karnataka effectively manage excess power generation and prevent wastage.
Yelahanka Gas Power Plant to Resume Operations
One of the temporary challenges Karnataka faced was the zero power generation at the Yelahanka Combined Cycle Gas Power Plant due to the expiration of its gas procurement contract. However, the government has now finalized an agreement with GAIL, and the plant is set to resume operations from March 1.
Additionally, Unit 4 of the RTPS (Raichur Thermal Power Station) is expected to be commissioned by the end of March 2024, further strengthening the state’s power stability.
A Power-Secure Summer for Bengaluru
With additional power sources, energy banking agreements, and advanced storage projects, Karnataka is ensuring that Bengaluru and other parts of the state will not experience power cuts this summer. The government’s proactive measures and strategic planning aim to provide a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply despite rising demand.