Heavy rains have affected normal life in Kerala. So far, 41 deaths have been reported due to monsoon fury. However, the State’s electricity board is set to reap benefits of heavy showers.
The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) is set to sell more power following the higher production in this monsoon season.
The KSEB has granted permission to the officials to take a decision in this regard. KSEB will invite proposals to sell power if the rain continues in the State.
Presently, the State can sell 600-megawatt power during night time. It is reported that an average amount of Rs 3.6 was priced for per unit of power. So far, KSEB has sold 70 lakh units.
The neighbouring Karnataka is an electricity surplus state. But they incur more expenses in producing thermal power.
Kerala got access to the market to sell power to northern states. But the shortage of electric lines remains as a barrier to Kerala’s power sale.
If there is an increase in power production in Idukki, it will see rise in sales and KSEB will slash prices. However, production of power in other plants has come down. The officials have been directed to collect maximum water in the dams without opening shutters during heavy rain.
The shutters will be opened if the water level rises to 99%. It is reported that power consumption has reduced as heavy rain is continuing to lash the State. As a precautionary measure, KSEB turned off transformers after widespread destructions due to rain.