Load-shedding to continue indefinitely in Kerala

The state power regulator KSERC today approved the proposal submitted by the Kerala State Electricity Board.

The regulator, however, deferred decision on other KSEB proposals like higher rates for consumption above 200 units a month and 25 per cent for industrial users on the ground that they required to be looked in detail and public hearings held before clearing such harsh measures, KSERC sources said.

The load-shedding, 30 minutes during the peak hours in the evening and another 30 minutes in the morning hours, has been in force in the state for the last two months.

The approval for the switch-off given by the KSERC earlier expired today and it was in view of this that the power board approached the regulator for clearance for further extension of load-shedding.

Bulk of Kerala's electricity demand is met from the domestic hydel generation.

As rainfall from both the South West and North East monsoon spells fell below normal, the power demand is being met by purchase from outside sources.