Kerala Power Restrictions to Continue; No Timeline Yet for Restoration, Says Minister Sunny Joseph

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Electricity Minister Sunny Joseph has said that it is not possible to specify when the power restrictions currently in force across the state will be lifted, citing an unprecedented imbalance between electricity demand and generation.

Speaking to the media, the minister said the crisis was caused by significant changes in weather patterns. While electricity consumption has increased compared to previous years, power generation has declined, creating an exceptional situation.

"This is an extraordinary circumstance. It is not a crisis created by anyone," the minister said.

He appealed to the public to reduce electricity consumption, particularly during nighttime peak hours. Consumers have been advised to keep air conditioner temperatures at or above 25°C and avoid the use of decorative and non-essential lighting at night.

The minister also said the government would expedite work at sites identified for battery storage systems to support solar power generation and improve the state's energy security.

The power restrictions have triggered widespread criticism, coming soon after the UDF government assumed office. Across Keralam, electricity supply was disrupted multiple times between 7.15 pm and 12.15 am on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

The impact of the restrictions was also felt by Chief Minister V D Satheesan, whose speech at the Mission Samudra Maritime Conclave, organised by the Kerala Maritime Mission, was interrupted by a power outage. Electricity supply was cut at around 7:00 pm while the Chief Minister was addressing the gathering.