KARACHI: Due to ongoing power supply constraints, K-Electric announced a new load-shedding schedule for its customers today.
The new schedule takes effect on July 1, 2022. This action is being taken to help customers who are experiencing nighttime load-shedding.
Due to rising temperatures and reduced fuel supply, the shortfall in KE territory has increased from an average of 250 MW – 350 MW to nearly 450 MW – 500 MW. Furthermore, the shortfall persists around the clock, necessitating the nighttime load shed. KE is also facing a power supply constraint as a result of reduced SSGC gas supplies, which are down to approximately 90 MMCFD versus the 200 MMCFD gas supplied last year. As a result, two plants in KE’s system, one at SITE and one at Korangi, with a combined capacity of 200MW, remain inactive. The government’s release of KE dues against tariff claims will allow KE to pay fuel suppliers in full and negotiate for more gas.
“This revision in timing is in line with our discussions with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Energy Sindh and Commissioner Karachi,” according to a K-Electric spokesperson. We are making every effort to seek assistance in resolving these issues.
Unfortunately, the country is currently experiencing a power shortage as well as a shortage of gas and RLNG. We appreciate Energy Minister Imtiaz Sheikh’s pledge to seek additional power and gas to reduce nighttime load shedding even further. Meanwhile, because of limited and finite energy resources, we have redistributed load shedding timings among customers.”
“The updated schedule for the new loaded regime is now available on KE’s website.” Customers can locate their schedules by entering their account numbers. KE is also communicating with registered customers through its SMS service. Having said that, the uninterrupted power supply will continue to be provided to feeders powering Karachi’s industrial zones and strategic feeders such as those supplying KWSB and strategic installations such as Karachi Airport,” the spokesperson added.
The current loaded schedule is applied on a daily recurring basis. Interruptions in power supply caused by network maintenance or technical faults should not be confused with load shedding. KE teams are still working to resolve known issues. Any customer experiencing a power outage lasting more than 30 to 40 minutes outside of their loadshed times should check their KE Live app for an update on their power status; KE’s call center 118 is also available 24/7.
