Karnataka Energy Dept Earns ₹3,685 Cr from Power Sales

Karnataka’s energy department has reported a net earning of Rs 3,685.29 crore from power sales to the grid over the last four years, despite purchasing electricity at a higher average rate.

The Numbers Behind the Grid

From 2023-24 to June 8, 2026, the Power Company of Karnataka Limited (PCKL) managed significant power transactions:

• Sales Revenue: Rs 3,685.29 crore.
• Units Sold: 6,531.33 million units (MU).
• Average Sale Price: Rs 5.64 per unit.
• Units Purchased: 14,082.88 MU.
• Total Purchase Cost: Rs 9,111.65 crore.
• Average Purchase Price: Rs 6.47 per unit.

Officials noted that most sales occurred during the monsoon season and solar hours when market rates were lower, while purchases peaked in summer at higher rates.

Future Energy Strategy

The department is now strategically shifting focus to boost profitability through increased renewable energy generation. Plans include expanding solar, wind, and hydel power production.

Selling excess hydel power to the grid is also being considered, especially given current storage concerns.

Opposition to Privatization

In a related development, the All-India Power Engineers’ Federation (AIPEF) has urged the immediate withdrawal of proposed amendments to the electricity Bill. They also strongly oppose Tata Power’s application to the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission (KERC) for power distribution in 19 districts.

AIPEF chairman Shailendra Dubey argued that privatizing the power sector would fragment the industry. He warned it could allow private companies to cherry-pick profitable consumers, making it harder for public utilities to supply affordable electricity to domestic users, farmers, and vulnerable populations. The federation also called for the reinstatement of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS).