Possible Increase in Electricity Rates due to Worsening Power Crisis, States Minister K Krishnankutty

Minister K Krishnankutty has highlighted the pressing need for stringent regulation in response to the deteriorating power crisis, which could potentially result in higher electricity rates. The extent of the rate hike will be contingent upon the amount of electricity procured, a decision that falls under the jurisdiction of the regulatory board. The potential implementation of load shedding will also be deliberated upon following a high-level meeting scheduled for August 21st. Should the state experience inadequate rainfall after the Onam festival, power regulation might become imperative.

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is currently incurring a daily loss of Rs 10 crore due to the procurement of power at elevated prices from external sources. To offset this loss, the consideration of imposing a surcharge is underway. The forthcoming actions of the government will be guided by the report submitted by the KSEB chairman on Monday.