Kerala braces for power cuts amid surging demand and weak monsoon

The southern state is grappling with a dual challenge that threatens to disrupt power supply across the region. Surging temperatures have driven up demand for cooling appliances, putting severe strain on the state's electricity grid. Simultaneously, weak monsoon rains have depleted water levels in Kerala's hydroelectric power dams, significantly reducing the state's renewable energy generation capacity.

State Power Minister Sunny Joseph attributed the power shortage to the combined impact of climatic factors and usage patterns. The reduced inflow into dams, which feed much of Kerala's hydropower plants, has curtailed the state's ability to meet the elevated demand during the peak heat season.

The power deficit comes at a critical time when households and businesses across Kerala are increasingly reliant on electrical appliances to cope with higher temperatures. With hydroelectric resources constrained, the state may need to rely more heavily on thermal power generation and alternative sources to bridge the gap.

Authorities have warned residents to prepare for potential rolling blackouts and have urged consumers to adopt energy conservation measures. The situation underscores the growing vulnerability of Kerala's power infrastructure to climate variability and seasonal weather patterns.