K.J. George holds meeting in Mangaluru, says no shortage of power in Karnataka

K.J. George holds meeting in Mangaluru, says no shortage of power in Karnataka

mangaloretoday.com

Mangaluru, Feb 05, 2024: Energy Minister K J George assured that Karnataka would not face any power shortages during the summer season. Speaking at a meeting with elected representatives from Dakshina Kannada at the Mescom head office in Mangaluru, he highlighted the state government’s proactive measures to enhance power production and meet rising demands. Despite an increase in power demand compared to the previous year, he emphasized that there have been no power outages.

 

 

 

 

KJ George acknowledged the anticipation of a further surge in power demand during the upcoming summer months and student examinations.The minister informed that the Yelahanka gas plant, boasting a capacity of 380 MW, is set to commence generation within the month, with full-fledged power production expected in two months. Karnataka has already initiated the purchase of electricity from Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, with coal imports to supplement domestic resources for thermal power generation.

George outlined the state government’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy, revealing plans to introduce pumped storage hydel power systems at Varahi and Sharavathi. Currently generating 450 MW, Varahi is projected to produce 1500 MW with the implementation of pumped storage. An MoU has already been signed for a pumped storage facility at Varahi, while the Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) has issued a tender for a similar system at Sharavathi, expected to generate 2000 MW.

In response to demands from elected representatives from DK for the installation of underground (UG) cables, Minister George acknowledged the substantial investment required. He mentioned a firm willing to lay UG cables on an annuity basis, dependent on the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) power tariff. Similar proposals are being considered for Mangaluru.

The Minister instructed the Mescom Managing Director to develop a proposal for ring main units at substations in Mangaluru.