Gas shortage pushes up electricity demand, night peak rises: CEB

A noticeable rise in electricity consumption, particularly during the night peak hours, has been observed in recent weeks, with power sector officials attributing the trend partly to households increasingly turning to electricity for cooking amid shortages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

- BY IFHAM NIZAM

Data from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) shows that both the total units generated and the evening peak demand have been gradually increasing, signalling a possible shift in household energy use.

Energy sector sources said the rising night peak load suggests that more consumers may be relying on electric appliances such as hot plates, electric cookers and induction stoves as alternatives to LPG.

"The night peak is increasing steadily. One of the likely reasons could be the growing use of electricity for cooking due to the shortage of LPG," a senior power sector official said.

Electricity demand traditionally rises during the evening hours between 6.30 p.m. and 9.30 p.m., when domestic consumption surges as households switch on lighting and appliances while preparing meals.