Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), the state-owned power producer, set a record by generating 15,509 mn units of hydropower in the financial year 2025-26. The achievement was highlighted as significant given that Karnataka has been ranked among leading states in hydropower with an installed capacity of 3630 MW, according to the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI). The Energy Department reported the outcome in an official statement.

Generation was recorded across multiple river systems, with output from four stations in the Sharavathi Valley, four in the Kali Valley, two each in the Varahi and Cauvery valleys, and one each in the Krishna and Tungabhadra systems. The total exceeded the previous record of 13,853 mn units set in 2024-25, reflecting a substantial year-on-year rise. The Sharavathi and Varahi Valley power stations together produced 8,696 mn units, which was noted as a separate record for those stations.

KPCL management attributed the performance to consistent efforts to meet the state’s power demand and to improved maintenance practices that have enhanced output even at some of the oldest hydropower stations. Those stations included Shivanasamudra, Shimsha, Sharavathi and the Mahatma Gandhi Hydel Power Station at Jog Falls, which were said to have delivered impressive performance. Officials indicated that better upkeep and operational focus had played a key role in boosting generation.

The Energy Minister K J George linked the record generation to good rainfall during the relevant period and to efficient maintenance of power stations, and he extended appreciation to the KPCL managing director and staff. Officials suggested that the combination of favourable hydrology and strengthened operational discipline had contributed to grid stability and renewable supply. KPCL will remain a key element of the state’s efforts to meet demand and expand reliable renewable generation.