Peak power demand in India’s northern plains hit a record high on Monday amid a prolonged heatwave, government reports suggested. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast above-normal temperatures for June in the northwest and central regions, marking one of the longest heatwave spells in recent history.
Government data revealed nearly 25,000 suspected heat stroke cases and 56 heat-related deaths from March to May across India. On Monday, power demand in the northern region peaked at an unprecedented 89 gigawatts (GW), with the power ministry describing the situation as “challenging” since mid-May.
Temperatures in Delhi soared to approximately 44 degrees Celsius (111.2 Fahrenheit) on Monday, with the IMD stating it felt like 49.2 degrees Celsius due to high humidity. The capital city has endured temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) since May 12, with a forecasted drop below that mark expected only by June 26.
To meet the soaring demand, the power ministry has been importing 25-30% of its electricity from neighbouring regions and has urged all utilities to minimize forced outages of equipment. This summer has witnessed a nationwide peak demand of 250 GW, driven by increased use of air conditioners and cooling appliances.
Despite the heatwave, the IMD predicts some relief starting Thursday, although the monsoon has delivered 20% less rain than usual so far this season. The extreme heat and resulting policy measures have led to a surge in gas-fired power usage, with power generation doubling to 8.9 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in April and May compared to the same period last year, according to Grid India data.
(With PTI inputs)