Thiruvananthapuram,27 April (H.S.): Kerala is set to witness controlled power cuts as surging electricity demand driven by intense summer heat has pushed the grid towards critical limits. The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has announced that it will implement load restrictions under a “peak load management” strategy to maintain grid stability.
Officials indicated that short-duration power interruptions ranging from 15 to 30 minutes may be imposed in various parts of the state. Consumers will be notified in advance through SMS alerts, with the duration and timing of outages determined based on local demand patterns and grid conditions.
According to KSEB, the state is currently experiencing an unprecedented spike in electricity consumption, particularly during peak evening hours. Demand between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. has risen sharply, placing enormous stress on the power system. If left unmanaged, this surge could lead to major system failures or widespread outages, officials warned.
To prevent such a scenario, the Board has urged consumers to actively cooperate by reducing electricity usage during peak hours. It has specifically advised against the use of high-power appliances such as pump sets, induction stoves, water heaters, electric irons, and washing machines during the evening peak window. Electric vehicle charging is also discouraged after 6 p.m. to ease pressure on the grid.
In addition, KSEB has recommended that air conditioners be set at a temperature range of 24–26 degrees Celsius to optimise power consumption. Consumers have also been asked to switch off non-essential lights and electronic devices wherever possible.
The Board emphasised that these measures are temporary but necessary to navigate the current demand crisis. With temperatures continuing to remain high across the state, electricity consumption is expected to stay elevated in the coming days.
Authorities reiterated that public cooperation will play a crucial role in preventing extended outages and ensuring equitable power distribution across regions. The situation will be reviewed regularly, and further steps will be taken depending on demand trends and system capacity.
As Kerala battles soaring temperatures, the focus remains on balancing supply and demand while safeguarding the stability of the power grid.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
