The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has issued an advisory on the safe and judicious use of electricity in view of El Niño conditions or otherwise. Citing the India Meteorological Department’s forecast of above-normal temperatures, the CEA has cautioned that increased use of air conditioners and cooling appliances could overload consumer wiring and electrical equipment. This could increase the risk of overheating, electrical faults and fire incidents.
The CEA has advised consumers to keep their connected load within the sanctioned limit and report any increase to the concerned discom. It has also advised consumers to avoid running multiple appliances from the same socket, maintain air conditioners at 24°C as recommended by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, and get electrical appliances serviced regularly by qualified technicians. In addition, consumers have been advised to install properly rated miniature circuit breakers and residual current devices. Meanwhile, discoms have been asked to monitor the loading of transformers, cables and other equipment and replace them before they reach threshold limits.