As Bengalureans brace for rising temperatures and increased electricity demand, the Karnataka government has guaranteed a summer free from power outages. Energy Minister KJ George, after assessing the state’s power generation and distribution, confirmed that Karnataka will meet the surge in demand without disruptions.
Despite being a power-rich state, Karnataka lacks storage infrastructure. Anticipating that energy consumption may exceed 19,000 MW daily, George assured, “We are fully equipped to handle the rising demand.” The state’s installed capacity stands at 34,000 MW. On February 27, Karnataka reached a peak usage of 17,874 MW, successfully meeting requirements without shortages.
The demand has surged by 2,000 MW daily compared to February 2024. To enhance supply, Karnataka secured additional power allocation from NTPC’s Kudgi plant in Vijayapura. Moreover, the state is leveraging an energy banking system with Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. While UP contributes between 100 MW and 1,275 MW based on necessity, Punjab consistently supplies 300 MW. The arrangement ensures these states receive equivalent power during the monsoon when Karnataka’s demand drops.
Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary of Energy, disclosed plans to procure 1,000 MW long-term from power exchanges at Rs 6.75–6.85 per unit. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to develop storage solutions, including pumped storage projects at Sharavathi, Varahi, and JSW Ballari, alongside battery storage in Pavagada.
The Yelahanka gas plant, inactive due to a lapsed gas procurement contract, is set to resume operations from March 1, with RTPS Unit 4 expected to be operational by the end of March.
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