Karnataka Earns Rs 423 Crore from Surplus Power Sales, Sets New Demand Record

Bengaluru, June 2026 : Karnataka has generated revenue of Rs 423 crore by selling surplus electricity to the national grid, Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George announced on Wednesday, highlighting the achievement as a major milestone in the state’s power management strategy.

Speaking after chairing a review meeting with senior officials of the Energy Department at Belaku Bhavana in Bengaluru following his assumption of office as Energy Minister, George said Karnataka had successfully navigated the summer season by optimising power generation and demand management while also earning substantial revenue through strategic power trading.

According to the minister, the Power Company of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) sold excess electricity between April and June 8, 2026, at an average price of Rs 9.08 per unit, generating total revenue of Rs 423 crore.

“We managed the summer power situation very effectively through energy optimisation. During daytime hours, low-cost power was procured, while additional electricity generated from hydroelectric, thermal and other sources during peak demand periods was sold to the national grid,” George explained.

He said the achievement demonstrated Karnataka’s growing capability in efficient power generation, grid management and participation in the national electricity market.

Focus on Monsoon Preparedness

The minister also reviewed the department’s preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season and directed officials to ensure rapid restoration of electricity services in case of disruptions caused by heavy rains, strong winds or storms.

As part of preventive measures, electricity supply companies (ESCOMs) across the state have undertaken extensive infrastructure strengthening work. The department has replaced 33,400 power poles, 1,441 transformers, and 343.56 kilometres of power lines to minimise disruptions during adverse weather conditions.

To improve emergency response capabilities, the Energy Department has deployed 20,012 regular linemen and 4,883 specially engaged monsoon gangmen. In addition, stockpiles of 99,530 poles and 12,733 transformers have been maintained to facilitate quick restoration work whenever required.

George stressed that uninterrupted electricity supply during the monsoon season remains a top priority and instructed officials to remain on alert to address any emergencies promptly.

Rising Power Demand

The minister also highlighted Karnataka’s electricity demand and consumption trends over the last three financial years.

During 2023-24, the state recorded a peak power demand of 17,220 MW, while electricity consumption touched 94,982 million units (MU). Consumption increased by 24 per cent, largely due to drought conditions and higher power requirements across sectors.

In 2024-25, peak demand rose to 18,395 MW, while total power consumption stood at 92,699 MU. Despite the increase in peak demand, overall consumption declined by around 2 per cent, mainly because favourable monsoon conditions reduced electricity usage.

The state witnessed its highest-ever peak demand in 2025-26, touching 18,655 MW, while total electricity consumption increased to 96,383 MU, reflecting a 4 per cent growth over the previous year.

For the current financial year, up to June 8, 2026, Karnataka has already recorded a peak demand of 18,477 MW and electricity consumption of 21,789 MU. Consumption during this period has grown by 22.39 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, largely due to the failure of pre-monsoon rains, which significantly increased power demand across the state.

George said Karnataka’s ability to meet growing electricity requirements while simultaneously generating revenue through surplus power sales reflects the state’s strong energy infrastructure and efficient resource management. He expressed confidence that the Energy Department would continue to strengthen power reliability and support the state’s economic growth through effective planning and modernisation initiatives.