KSEB secures 600 MW from Himachal Pradesh to ease power shortage

The Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB) has secured a power supply agreement with the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB) to mitigate electricity shortages in Kerala. Under the agreement, HPSEB will supply 600 MW of power during peak hours from October 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027.

KSEB Chairman M G Rajamanickam noted that the decision follows unsuccessful attempts to maintain short-term supplies from Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. While HPSEB initially offered 210 MW of round-the-clock power at Rs 10 per unit, KSEB opted for the 600 MW peak-hour supply at a higher rate of Rs 14.5 per unit, deeming it more economical given the availability of cheaper daytime power and exchange rates.

The procurement comes amid concerns over potential power crises driven by a possible Super El Niño and forecasted droughts. Kerala Chief Minister V D Satheesan reportedly intervened to help secure the deal and has since contacted Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to request a reduction in the tariff.