Karnataka Government Promises 5 Hours of Uninterrupted Power Supply for Farmers

Recognizing the pivotal role of electricity in agriculture, Karnataka Energy Minister KJ George has affirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to providing 5 hours of uninterrupted power supply to farmers. Minister George's announcement comes as a ray of hope for farmers facing the challenges of power shortages during critical farming activities.

The Minister, after a comprehensive meeting with department officials, addressed a press conference at Belaku Bhavana today, outlining the government's proactive efforts to ensure a minimum of 5 hours of uninterrupted power supply to the farming community.

Minister George made a resolute commitment to deliver a continuous 5-hour power supply to farmers, alternating between day and night in three shifts. Farmers will receive timely notifications regarding these shifts through various media channels, including publications, radio, and television. Although the state currently grapples with a 1,500 MW power deficit, the government is vigorously pursuing strategies to bolster power generation in the forthcoming months to meet the surging demand.

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In an earlier meeting, Minister George discussed the implementation of efficient measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply with the Managing Directors of Electricity Supply Companies (ESCOMs). To facilitate the seamless execution of this ambitious plan, Nodal Officers have been appointed district-wise among Chief Engineers, tasked with overseeing the provision of uninterrupted 5-hour power supply, following the directives of the Chief Minister.

To bridge the electricity deficit, the government will take action to purchase short-term electricity, subject to the approval of the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC). The Minister also explained that Section 11 of the Electricity Act has been invoked under national disaster management to procure electricity from power generators within the state, ensuring that the power shortage is overcome effectively.

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Minister George acknowledged that the demand for power has surged due to a severe drought situation in Karnataka. However, the government is actively working to meet the rising demand by purchasing power both from within and outside the state. An order has been issued to power generators in the state to supply electricity to the government.

The electricity deficit has been attributed to various factors, including natural calamities such as drought, a shortfall in wind energy production, and cloud cover. Nevertheless, the government has efficiently managed this situation by procuring power from the grid. Notably, 400 substations have been identified, with 230 of them already in progress. Plans are in place to procure power from KUDAGI by December 1st, and a barter system has been established with Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

From April 23 to October 15, 2023, a total of 1627 million units of electricity, amounting to 1102 crores, were purchased, while during the same period, 636 million units of electricity were sold through the Indian Energy Exchange (IEX).

Minister George stressed the importance of dispelling the misconception that Karnataka is in darkness. The state government has ambitious plans to expand the Pavagada Solar Park, increasing its capacity from the current 2,300 MW to an additional 2000 MW across 10,000 acres. Efforts are also underway to enhance solar power generation in Gadag and Gulbarga, showcasing the government's dedication to sustainable energy solutions and the welfare of its farming community.

The commitment to provide 5 hours of uninterrupted power supply to farmers underscores the Karnataka government's proactive approach in ensuring the prosperity of its agricultural sector and the well-being of its farming population.

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