Kerala buys Himachal power at Rs 14.50 per unit to avoid restrictions

Kerala has avoided power restrictions by purchasing electricity from Himachal Pradesh at Rs 14.50 per unit to meet high night-time demand. The state initially declined the costly power in early September but reversed its decision after public anger over restrictions intensified. Kerala has contracted to buy 800 megawatts daily from Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation this month, totaling 28 crore units, with an estimated additional cost of Rs 410 crore for KSEB. The power supply is primarily available at night, when Kerala's demand peaks. KSEB is negotiating to lower the price to Rs 12.50 per unit for extended procurement, and it plans to approach the Regulatory Commission within ten days for approval, as the current rate exceeds the permitted maximum of Rs 10.