Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Karnataka Boosts Thermal Power Amid Poor Monsoon
Karnataka is producing more thermal power because the monsoon rains were not enough, which means there is less water in the dams to generate hydroelectric power.
The state is now making more electricity using coal power plants to meet the demand.
This helps them avoid buying expensive electricity from other sources.
The government is working to keep all thermal power plants running at full capacity to ensure there is enough electricity for everyone.
However, using more thermal power can cause pollution and health problems.
Karnataka has increased thermal power generation to 84.34 million units/day from 54.47 million units/day last year.
The state aims to reach 100 million units/day to meet growing electricity demand.
Low water levels in reservoirs due to poor monsoon rainfall have reduced hydel power generation.
Raichur, Ballari, and Yaramaras Thermal Power Stations have significantly increased their output.
The government is focusing on maximizing in-house generation to reduce costs and ensure uninterrupted power supply.
- Who
- Karnataka government and Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL)
- What
- Increased thermal power generation to offset decline in hydel electricity production
- When
- July 2023
- Where
- Karnataka, India
- Why
- Inadequate monsoon rainfall leading to low water levels in reservoirs
Increased Thermal Power Generation
Environmental and Health Concerns
Energy Security vs. Environmental Impact
Increased Thermal Power Generation
Increased thermal power generation ensures energy security and reduces dependence on expensive open market electricity.
Environmental and Health Concerns
Reliance on thermal power increases pollution and health risks, potentially harming public well-being.
- Current Thermal Power Output
- 84.34 million units/day
- Thermal Power Output Last Year
- 54.47 million units/day
- Target Thermal Power Output
- 100 million units/day
- Raichur Thermal Power Station Output
- 24.45 million units/day (up from 13.12 million units/day last year)
- Ballari Thermal Power Station Output
- 33.64 million units/day (up from 25.35 million units/day last year)
- Yaramaras Thermal Power Station Output
- 26.25 million units/day (up from 16 million units/day last year)