Bengaluru, (DHNS): The coal shortage in the thermal plants of Raichur district has resulted in power production being increased drastically at the Sharavathy Generating Station (SGS) in Sagar taluk of Shivamogga district.

SGS is the lifeline of hydropower in the state. Sources in SGS said that the quantum of power generation has been increased considerably to manage the power crisis that may emerge in the coming days. It has been increased from 9 million units to 18-19 million units per day against the maximum generation of 24 million units.

It is likely to increase in the coming days if the coal shortage issue is not resolved in time. A maximum of 24 million units of power can be generated, provided water is released directly to SGS from the Linganamakki dam by opening the sluice gate. But it is unlikely to be done at this juncture as it would lead to loss of power at the Linganamakki powerhouse (LPH). At present, water used at LPH is being reused for power generation in SGS. If water is released directly from the dam to SGS, the LPH cannot generate power. Generally, it is done during summer.

Speaking to DH, H Mohan, executive engineer, said power generation had been increased at SGS as the thermal plants were hit by coal shortage. Fortunately, the dam has reached its maximum level this year due to copious rains in the catchment area for the first time in the last three years. So, there is no dearth of water for power generation.

But it has to be used judiciously till the next rainy season. Out of 10 units at SGS, nine are functioning at present and one has a technical snag. It will also start functioning in a few days. So, it is not a major concern. The Gerusoppa powerhouse is also generating 2.5 million units of power per day. The Mahatma Gandhi Jog Falls powerhouse is generating 0.4 to 0.5 million units per day. The Linganamakki powerhouse has two units with an installed capacity of 55 MW.

The four units of Gerusoppa powerhouse have an installed capacity to generate 240 MW. They are generating 2.5 million units of power per day. Around 8,000 cusecs of water is required to generate 10 million units of power per day.