Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL) has increased thermal power generation to ensure adequate and reliable electricity supply across the state amid a decline in hydropower generation caused by deficient rainfall. The corporation said it is generating an average of 84.34 million units (mn units) of thermal power every day in July and is taking measures to further increase daily generation to 100 mn units in the coming days. It has been maintaining its thermal plants in optimal operating condition and is undertaking proactive steps to augment output while also bolstering coal stocks.

Energy minister K J George has reviewed KPCL’s generation activities and directed officials to ensure generation meets demand and plant availability is maximised. The corporation said steps are being taken to achieve full availability of thermal units and to reach the 100 mn units daily target. It noted that a shortfall in hydropower output may necessitate electricity purchases from other states, which would place an additional burden on the State exchequer, and that increased in?state generation is intended to avoid such costs.

The KPCL reported that coal supplies and thermal generation have risen markedly during the monsoon, particularly in July. At the Raichur Thermal Power Station an average of 24.45 mn units per day is being generated in July this year compared with 13.12 mn units per day during July last year. At the Ballari Thermal Power Station average daily output has risen to 33.64 mn units from 25.35 mn units, while at the Yermarus station daily generation has increased to 26.25 mn units from 16 mn units during the corresponding period last year.

KPCL said coal stocks sufficient for 15 days of operation have been maintained and arrangements are being made to raise stocks to a level sufficient for 20 days by receiving 17-18 coal rakes per day. During the corresponding period last year coal stocks had been sufficient for 12 days, and the corporation said the enhanced stock levels and plant readiness will support higher thermal generation to meet demand.