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Chennai, Oct 23 (IANS) Heavy northeast monsoon rains have led to a sharp decline in power consumption in Tamil Nadu last week, forcing the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL) to cut thermal power generation by nearly 50 per cent.
According to TNPDCL data, the state’s total power demand on Wednesday stood at 11,651 MW, much lower than the seasonal average of around 15,000 MW.
The decline in demand is mainly due to less use of air conditioners in urban areas and less operation of irrigation motors in rural areas due to frequent rains.
In Chennai, the city’s power demand dropped from 3,694 MW on October 13 to 2,659 MW as of Tuesday – a drop of more than 1,000 MW within a week.
Similar reductions have been recorded in the western and southern districts, where persistent rains have reduced the need for agricultural pumping.
Reflecting low demand, the state’s thermal power plants produced only 2,037 MW on Wednesday, while their combined capacity was 4,320 MW.
Despite cloudy skies, solar power generation remained stable at 1,679 MW due to intermittent sunshine.
The state’s total power consumption is expected to remain low during the monsoon season. Meanwhile, TNPDCL has directed the field staff and engineers to maintain strict safety measures during the ongoing rain and restoration operations.
All maintenance teams have been instructed to use appropriate protective gear and ensure that power lines are completely de-energized before carrying out any repairs.
The department has also appealed to the public to be cautious near electrical infrastructure such as transformers, junction boxes and poles during rains.
Citizens have been urged to report incidents of trees or poles falling on power lines to local authorities or the TNPDCL helpline for immediate action.
With incessant rains across Tamil Nadu turning the weather cooler, the monsoon has not only revived water resources but also temporarily reduced the state’s energy load – leading to a seasonal slowdown in power consumption and a decline in generation.
–IANS
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