Rain deficit in Karnataka: Energy Dept. to strengthen non-hydropower sources

With a major rainfall deficiency recorded in June this year due to the El Nino effect, Karnataka’s Energy Department has initiated measures to strengthen the State’s power infrastructure.

During a review meeting held on Thursday, Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, directed officials to formulate a comprehensive strategy to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply under all weather conditions across the State including urban and rural areas.

He said, “Deficient rainfall could adversely affect hydropower generation. Therefore, alternative measures must be put in place and all necessary preparations made to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply.”

According to the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), Karnataka recorded only 116 mm of rainfall in June, against the normal 199 mm. Data provided by the Energy Department showed that energy consumption and generation on July 8, Wednesday, stood at 268.49 Million Units (MU). It also stated that the highest peak demand met so far in 2026-27 was 18,478 MW, while the peak consumption recorded was 372.42 MU on April 16.

Mr. Gupta added, “Hydropower generation is already significantly lower this season due to inadequate rainfall. Thermal power stations in the State must therefore be operated efficiently to maximise power generation. At the same time, solar and wind power generation should be enhanced and optimally utilised. Steps should also be taken to procure electricity from co-generation power plants.”

The Energy Department release stated that, as part of the action plan, Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) officials have been instructed to ensure maximum operational efficiency of thermal power stations, maintain adequate coal stocks, and prioritise maintenance schedules for thermal and hydropower stations based on system requirements.

Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has been directed to expedite the commissioning of the 500 MVA Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), while Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) will facilitate the early implementation of JSW’s 300 MW solar power projects. Similarly, Escoms and KREDL officials have been told to accelerate the implementation of the PM-KUSUM-B and PM-KUSUM-C schemes.

Power Company of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) has been instructed to complete the procurement process for purchasing 500–700 MW of electricity from co-generation power plants. The State also plans to operationalise power banking arrangements with other states before October 2026, including Round-the-Clock (RTC) and peak-hour power procurement mechanisms.

Supply interruptions

Referring to the heavy rains in several districts of the Malnad region, he said, “Electricity poles, power lines and transformers have been damaged, resulting in supply interruptions. All managing directors of Escoms have been directed to expedite restoration works and strengthen preparedness to ensure the quick resumption of power supply.”

K.J. George, Minister for Energy and Tourism, said, “Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has already directed that there should be no disruption in electricity supply despite natural calamities. All officers and staff must work towards this objective. Preparations should begin immediately to ensure adequate power supply until the end of May 2027. Under no circumstances should the public face inconvenience. As far as possible, long-term power purchase agreements should be entered into, while ensuring they do not impose an undue financial burden.”