Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 22 (PTI) Amid continuing power cuts in Keralam, Minister Sunny Joseph on Tuesday said the government was exploring options, including talks with other states, to ease the shortage.
Joseph said power supply and availability were issues across India as demand continued to rise.
“We are trying our best to resolve the issue. The chairman and directors of the Kerala State Electricity Board are in talks with various states. The chief minister has also held discussions with other states, and I have spoken to my counterpart in Karnataka. However, they too have limitations in supplying us with electricity,” the minister told reporters.
“We are exploring all possibilities,” the Electricity minister added.
Joseph said Keralam had a shortage of power generation projects and that, in view of the current situation, the government was discussing various short- and long-term plans suggested by different stakeholders.
He said the state’s power generation had not increased in line with consumption.
“Keralam generates 1,650 MW of power, but its requirement is 5,500 MW, and it is increasing every year. Due to changes in the climate, temperatures are rising. The heat increases even after it rains. Additionally, power consumption is rising due to the increased use of electric vehicles, induction stoves, air conditioners, fans and other appliances,” the minister said.
He said reducing consumption was difficult, but wastage could be minimised by switching off street lights during the day and lights in homes when they were not required.
Joseph said efforts were being made to generate more electricity through solar and wind power, as well as new hydel projects.
“A permanent solution will take time,” he added.
(PTI News)