The Karnataka Energy Department has moved to strengthen infrastructure and supply arrangements to address the impact of El Nino on electricity availability. Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta convened officials in Bengaluru and ordered that power banking arrangements with other states be operationalised before October to secure procurement during peak hours. The department noted that long term agreements with neighbouring states, including Punjab, would be leveraged to maintain supply. The department also advised close coordination with regional grid operators to manage peak demand.

Officials were instructed to develop comprehensive strategies to ensure uninterrupted electricity in all weather conditions. The secretary emphasised that deficit rainfall could adversely affect hydropower generation and therefore prescribed alternative measures to offset shortfalls. Thermal stations were to be run efficiently to maximise output, while solar and wind generation should be enhanced and purchases from co generation power plants explored. Detailed timetables for fuel delivery and plant maintenance were requested to be submitted within weeks.

Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) was directed to maintain sufficient coal stock and to ensure proper maintenance and scheduling at thermal and hydro power stations. Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) was urged to expedite commissioning of the 500 MVA Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Limited (KREDL) was asked to accelerate the 300 MW solar project with JSW. Ongoing monitoring was to be reported to the department on a regular schedule.

The procurement arm PCKL was instructed to speed up purchase of between 500 and 700 MW from other cogeneration units to shore up supply. Officials were directed to finalise contingency plans and monitor fuel stocks, equipment readiness and grid stability as the season progresses. The department set an October deadline for key measures and said inter state collaboration would be central to ensuring resilience. Officials will review progress monthly.