Tamil Nadu power utility asks major users to run generators during evening peak
The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation has asked high-tension consumers to use generators between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., although officials describe the measure as a request rather than an order. Industry groups warn that generator power would sharply raise costs and disrupt production, especially in foundries and mills.
The Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited has asked high-tension electricity consumers to switch to generators during evening peak hours, prompting concern among industrial users in Coimbatore. Officials have sent messages to high-tension consumers in different circles over the past two weeks. The requested period is generally from 7 p.m.
to 10 p.m., although some consumers have been asked to use generators until 9 p.m. N. Pradeep, secretary of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Coimbatore, said the communication was a request or suggestion rather than a compulsory directive.
He said businesses had not rejected the appeal but remained concerned about its implications. Durai Palaniswamy, chairman of the Southern India Mills’ Association, said the arrangement should be temporary. He called on the power distribution corporation, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission and the State government to consider measures that would make it viable for high-tension consumers to use alternative sources.
A foundry owner said generator electricity was not economically feasible. Grid power cost about ₹7 per unit, the owner said, while generator power could cost nearly ₹16 per unit. The owner added that generators would not support some foundry production processes.
G. Arulmozhi, president of the Openend Spinning Mills Association, appealed for continuous supply to high-tension consumers. He said using generators could increase production costs by ₹30 per unit, creating an unviable situation for manufacturing businesses.
Industry representatives said consumers with dedicated feeders should be allowed to purchase their own power and should not face load shedding. For other users, they suggested financial assistance to offset diesel costs. Pradeep also urged the government to buy power immediately to meet the State’s requirements when long-term power purchase agreements expire next year.
The industrial groups said the issue required an early solution.
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