The Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) has halted gas supply to the Yelahanka gas-based power plant in Bengaluru starting from 6 AM on March 12, as confirmed by Energy Ministry officials. The Yelahanka plant, with a capacity of 370 Mega Watts and operated by Karnataka Power Corporation Limited (KPCL), is the sole gas-based power generation facility in the State. Any disruption in gas supply could impact its electricity output, officials warned.
This gas-based unit, established to cater to Bengaluru’s electricity needs, has been operational since December last year. However, due to a natural gas shortage stemming from the West Asia conflict, power production at the plant may be affected, according to officials.
Authorities have expressed concerns that power generation in Karnataka might face interruptions due to decreased natural gas supply. This reduction follows the Central government’s decision to prioritize other sectors amidst nationwide shortages resulting from the West Asia Israel-Iran conflict.
To ensure continuous electricity supply during peak demand, the State government has been leveraging all available power sources. Karnataka’s daily electricity demand, currently around 355 million units, is being met through a combination of thermal and hydel power plants, solar and wind energy, and power exchanges with other states. However, any further reduction in gas supply to the Yelahanka plant could lead to minor disruptions in power supply, officials cautioned.
Under the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026, issued under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, the Centre has specified priority sectors for natural gas allocation to address the ongoing LPG shortage. Domestic Piped Natural Gas (PNG), LPG production, CNG for transport, and essential pipeline operations have been accorded top priority, ensuring 100% of their average gas consumption over the past six months.
Fertilizer plants have been placed in the second priority category, set to receive approximately 70% of their average gas consumption during the same period. Industrial and commercial consumers, including tea manufacturers, fall under the third priority, while City Gas Distribution companies supplying gas to industrial and commercial users are in the fourth priority category. These sectors are expected to receive 80% of their average gas consumption over the past six months.
Given that power generation holds the lowest priority, gas supply to this sector is likely to remain limited until the natural gas shortage situation improves.
