PSPCL authorized to impose power cuts amid peak demand

The Punjab State Electricity Regulatory Commission (PSERC) has given the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) permission to impose rotational power cuts to manage the gap between power demand and supply. However, these measures come with conditions and will only be implemented in emergencies and when system requirements demand it. The PSERC has rejected PSPCL’s request to impose a compulsory day off for the industry in Punjab.

High demand strains supply

Punjab is currently experiencing a searing heatwave and the paddy transplantation season, pushing peak power demand beyond the state's maximum supply capacity of 16,000 megawatts (MW). The PSPCL had approached the power regulator in March, noting that the projected unrestricted demand would be around 16,057 MW, compared to last year's peak of 15,293 MW. Given these unexpected circumstances, the PSPCL sought permission to impose regulatory measures, including a compulsory day off for the industry and other load-shedding measures.

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The PSERC held a public hearing where the industry opposed the move. On June 14, the PSERC authorized PSPCL to impose regulatory measures, including rotational power cuts, only when necessary for maintaining grid security. The regulator emphasized that routine power cuts and compulsory weekly off days would not be imposed on any category of consumers.

If required, PSPCL will inform consumers about the rotational power cuts through SMS, email, and its website. Unscheduled load shedding will only occur during sudden outages of generating units or other grid emergencies, and such events will be minimized.

Current situation and future outlook

A PSPCL official stated that there is currently no plan to impose power cuts, as efforts are being made to meet the demand of up to 16,000 MW. The power situation is expected to improve with the arrival of the monsoon, anticipated by the end of June or early July.

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Recent sporadic rain and thunderstorms have temporarily reduced power demand by nearly 1,000 MW, but it remains above 14,000 MW. Compounding the issue, technical snags have taken one unit of the Lehra Mohabbat (220 MW) thermal plant and one unit of the Talwandi Sabo (660 MW) plant out of operation. The PSPCL is working with Talwandi Sabo Power Limited to restore the unit as soon as possible, as high power demand is expected to continue during the paddy sowing season.