The Hindu Business Line : Power curbs in Kerala to continue

The Kerala State Electricity Regulatory Commission (KSERC) has ordered continuance of the existing thermal surcharge and power restrictions in the State.

KSERC has pointed out in its order that there has not been any significant rise in inflows to the hydro-electric reservoirs following deficient rains. Similarly, there has been no increase in the State’s share of power from the central pool. In the event, the severe power shortage in the State is continuing without any respite.

In the circumstances, the commission feels that the existing 20 per cent restriction on power supply should continue till there is improvement in hydro-electric generation and increase in the allocation from the Central pool.

Besides, the 50 paise surcharge per unit being levied from the consumers by the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) could continue till the board recovers the additional Rs 180 crore it had spent for purchase of costly thermal power from outside between April and July, 2008.

Surcharge details

The commission has directed KSEB to submit the details regarding the surcharge levied from the customers, before December 15. In case the board fails to do so, the surcharge will be withdrawn from January 1.

The commission has also asked KSEB to immediately replace the faulty meters as per the directions issued by it earlier so as to enable implementation of the restrictions effectively. Also, the generating units of Panniyar and Sabarigiri hydel projects should be put into service without any further delay.

The board has also been directed to take immediate steps to recover arrears of electricity charges from defaulting consumers in a time-bound manner. Besides, additional power purchase from traders should be made only on competitive bidding basis and in compliance with merit order principles.

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