Ranchi: As the LPG crisis in the city continues, urban households are increasingly ditching gas cylinders for induction cooktops, electric heaters, and microwaves. This sudden shift in mode of cooking has triggered a spike in power consumption, with Ranchi recording a nearly 5% increase in electricity demand over the last 20 days.Manmohan Kumar, general manager of Jharkhand Bijli Vitran Nigam Ltd (JBVNL), Ranchi Supply Area Board, on Wednesday said, “On Tuesday, the city’s usage hit 320 MW, up from 305 MW just 20 days ago. The primary driver is the widespread adoption of induction cooktops as an alternative to LPG.”The power department is bracing for more consumption as the mercury rises. “We expect a further surge in demand once residents begin using air conditioners and coolers alongside these electric cooking appliances,” Kumar added. While acknowledging the necessity of electric cooking during the gas shortage, he issued an appeal for conservation. “Electricity is an expensive resource. We urge citizens to use it judiciously and avoid any misuse,” he said.The shift to electric cooking has left many residents worried about their monthly finances. Despite the state’s provision for 200 free units, the added load of heavy appliances is expected to result in inflated bills.“We have very little gas left, so we have no choice but to use electrical appliances. I am worried that the electricity bill would be huge this month. This is definitely going to disrupt our monthly budget,” said Gudiya Singh, a local homemaker.Echoing her concerns, Manoj Kumar, another resident, said that the financial strain usually felt in peak summer (April and May) is arriving early this year. “Our bills are already hefty during the peak heat. Now, with so much cooking being done on induction, we are worried the bills will skyrocket starting this month itself,” he added.
