El Niño Alert: Karnataka Ramps Up Power Security, Eyes Storage and Renewables

As concerns grow over the potential impact of El Niño on hydropower generation , Karnataka Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has directed officials to draw up a comprehensive emergency action plan to safeguard the state's power supply. The initiative focuses on ensuring uninterrupted electricity , strengthening energy security, and preparing Karnataka to withstand possible climate-driven disruptions.

Chairing his first review meeting with the Energy Department , the Chief Minister emphasised the need to strengthen the state's energy security by prioritising power storage , expanding alternative sources of electricity generation, and preparing for any drought-like conditions that could affect hydropower production.

To safeguard fuel availability, he ordered the speedy operationalisation of coal mines allocated to Karnataka while ensuring adequate coal reserves are maintained throughout the year.

Officials informed the meeting that Karnataka's power reserves are currently stronger than last year and that the state has successfully maintained electricity supply without power cuts over the past three years. Despite this, Shivakumar called for faster implementation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Pumped Storage Projects to improve renewable energy integration and grid stability.

Highlighting Karnataka's technological ambitions, he said the state must prepare for rising electricity demand driven by data centres , Artificial Intelligence (AI) infrastructure, and the expanding digital economy.

Energy Minister K J George said the Gruha Jyothi scheme has not imposed an additional financial burden on the government but sought quicker clearance of ₹12,631 crore pending to Electricity Supply Companies (ESCOMs) .

The Chief Minister also directed officials to accelerate feeder solarisation , promote energy-efficient pump sets, and strengthen Demand Side Management initiatives. With peak power demand expected to reach 38 GW by 2035 , he instructed the department to prepare a long-term expansion and financing roadmap while expediting smart meter installation, grid modernisation, transmission projects, and the expansion of EV charging infrastructure to support Karnataka's growing energy needs.