CESC to add 600 MW power by March; major infrastructure works under way — UPSC Current Affairs | January 27, 2026
CESC to add 600 MW power by March; major infrastructure works under way
Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (CESC), Mysuru is enhancing power availability through KUSUM schemes and infrastructure development, including capacity additions and loss reduction measures. The initiatives aim to meet rising electricity demand and improve supply reliability, with focus on renewable energy and modernization of power distribution networks, holding relevance for UPSC GS3 (Infrastructure and Economy).
Overview The Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (CESC) , Mysuru, is undertaking significant initiatives to strengthen power availability across its jurisdiction. These efforts include major capacity additions under the KUSUM schemes and a series of infrastructure development works aimed at reducing losses and improving supply reliability. These developments are crucial for ensuring a stable power supply, especially during peak demand periods. Key Developments KUSUM Scheme Implementation KUSUM-C Scheme: Steps have been initiated to generate 900 MW of power within the CESC limits. Approximately 600 MW of this capacity is expected to be added to the CESC grid by March to address anticipated summer demand. KUSUM-B Scheme: Nearly 6,000 farmers have benefited, with about 60 MW of power being made available to them from the grid. Infrastructure Development Land Acquisition: CESC has obtained 22 sites from the Mysuru Development Authority (MDA) for the construction of offices and stores, and acquired 10 sites for setting up new stations. New Infrastructure: Around 100 to 120 new centers for 11 kV lines are being established to reduce power leakage, interruptions, and technical losses. Completed Works: Works worth ₹200 crore , pending for 10 to 15 years , have been completed in Kodagu district to address long-standing power supply issues and strengthen the distribution network. Underground Cabling: Underground power cabling has been carried out in Mysuru city to improve reliability and aesthetics. RDSS Grants and SCADA Implementation Detailed Project Reports (DPRs): CESC has prepared DPRs to secure RDSS grants from the Union government, with 60% of the funding expected to be provided by the Centre upon approval. SCADA Systems: DPRs worth ₹150 crore include proposals to install SCADA -based auto changeover systems in Mysuru city to improve operational efficiency. Compensation to Employee's Family Following the death of CESC employee T. Rahul in an electrical accident, compensation cheques amounting to ₹1.06 crore were distributed to his family. UPSC Relevance This news article is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly under GS Paper III (Economy, Infrastructure) and GS Paper II (Government Policies) . The initiatives undertaken by CESC align with national goals of promoting renewable energy, improving power distribution infrastructure, and ensuring reliable electricity supply to all. The KUSUM scheme and RDSS are key government programs that candidates should be familiar with. Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants KUSUM Scheme: Understand the objectives and components of the KUSUM scheme, its impact on farmers, and its contribution to renewable energy targets. RDSS Scheme: Analyze the objectives and funding mechanism of the RDSS, and its role in improving the financial health of DISCOMs. Infrastructure Development: Evaluate the importance of infrastructure development in enhancing power availability, reducing losses, and improving the reliability of electricity supply. SCADA Systems: Understand the role of SCADA systems in modernizing power distribution networks and improving operational efficiency. Important Facts CESC is implementing the KUSUM-C scheme to generate 900 MW of power. 6,000 farmers have benefited under the KUSUM-B scheme. ₹200 crore worth of works have been completed in Kodagu district . ₹150 crore worth of DPRs have been prepared for RDSS grants.