Sat Nov 09 15:11:06 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Faces Looming Power Crisis: State’s Peak Demand Projected to Triple by 2035
**Bengaluru, November 9, 2024:** Karnataka is facing a looming power crisis as the state’s peak electricity demand is projected to surge by over 100% in the next decade, reaching a staggering 33,000 Megawatts (MW) by 2034-35. This alarming forecast comes after the state witnessed a record peak demand exceeding 17,000 MW last year due to the failing monsoons, leading to a month-long power crunch.
A comprehensive report titled “Resource Adequacy of Karnataka”, submitted by the Power Corporation of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) to the state government, highlights the critical need for immediate action to address the anticipated power deficit.
The report, prepared by Power Research and Development Consultants Pvt. Ltd., considered various factors including economic growth, increased demand from irrigation, and the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) to project the exponential demand growth. The report also notes the potential for solar rooftop power generation, which is expected to reach 1,468 MW by 2034-35.
Gaurav Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Energy Department, said, “We need to have a higher power reserve to handle poor monsoon years.” He highlighted the importance of the report in guiding the state towards adequate resource measures to ensure reliable power supply.
The report recommends a significant increase in power generation capacity through thermal power plants and renewable energy sources. It also emphasizes the need for energy storage solutions to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy.
The report is now being submitted to the Central Electricity Authority for validation and subsequently to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) for approval. The state government is expected to take swift action based on these recommendations to prevent a major power crisis in the coming years.
First Piper 