Climate risk profile for power sector in Karnataka
Power infrastructure, which includes assets for generation, transmission, and distribution of power, is vulnerable to manifestations of climate change. Data from the International Disasters Database shows that during 1998–2017, India experienced an average of 16 extreme weather events resulting in a total economic loss of USD 45 billion, compared to an average of 10 events during 1978–97 with USD 20 billion in losses. Extreme weather events in the last two decades have resulted in loss of lives, decreased agricultural productivity, and infrastructure damage. Given infrastructure investments are large and long term, there is a need to identify climate risks and build resilience in power infrastructure assets. This study aims to develop a climate hazard map at the district level for Karnataka, assess climate risks and their implications for thermal, solar, and wind infrastructure assets, and recommend strategies for building infrastructure resilience.
