Statsguru: Increasing summer heat drives up electricity consumption in India | News

Severe heatwave conditions have been forecasted across northern India, leading to a surge in power demand as temperatures continue to rise. The power ministry’s projection of 260 gigawatts (Gw) for this summer is nearing reality, with the increased use of cooling equipment during heatwaves being a major contributing factor.

Despite only a quarter of households in India owning air conditioners or air coolers, the demand for cooling solutions is expected to skyrocket in the coming years. Eastern and Northern India have witnessed significant spikes in peak power demand, highlighting the strain on the energy sector during the scorching summer months.

Thermal power remains the primary source of electricity generation in India, accounting for over three-quarters of the total output. Adequate coal stocks have been reported to meet the rising demand, unlike the shortages experienced in 2023. The country has added more than 12,000 megawatts (Mw) of thermal capacity since March 2020, with a significant focus on renewable energy sources.

Renewable energy additions, especially in the private sector, have been on the rise, with nearly 57,000 Mw of capacity added in the past few years. However, the intermittent nature of renewable sources like solar energy poses challenges for grid stability, especially during nighttime when demand exceeds supply.

The government has been pushing for more nuclear power generation to ensure steady electricity supply, but the output remains low compared to thermal sources. The difference between power demand and supply is becoming more pronounced, emphasizing the need for sustainable energy solutions to meet the growing needs of the population.