India's peak power demand soared to an unprecedented 265.44 gigawatts (GW) on May 29, 2025, surpassing the previous record set just a day earlier. The surge was driven by an intense heatwave gripping large parts of northern and central India, leading to increased usage of cooling appliances such as air conditioners and fans.
Record-Breaking Demand
The new peak, recorded at 2:30 PM, exceeded the earlier record of 264.32 GW on May 28. The Power Ministry confirmed that the grid managed to meet the demand, though several regions faced power cuts due to local distribution constraints. The ministry attributed the rise to the prolonged heatwave, with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in many areas.
Regional Impact
States like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana witnessed the highest demand. In Delhi, the peak demand touched 8,000 MW, a new high for the national capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red alerts for several districts, warning of severe heatwave conditions persisting for the next few days.
Grid Management and Challenges
The Power Ministry stated that coal stocks at thermal power plants are adequate, with an average of 15 days of supply. However, some plants reported lower stocks due to increased generation. The ministry has directed all states to ensure uninterrupted power supply to essential services like hospitals and water supply plants.
Government Measures
The government has invoked emergency measures, including the use of idle gas-based power plants and imports of coal. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) is monitoring the situation round the clock. Officials have urged consumers to use electricity judiciously and switch off unnecessary appliances during peak hours.
The record demand highlights the growing strain on India's power infrastructure amid climate change-induced extreme weather events. Experts call for accelerated investment in renewable energy and grid modernization to enhance resilience.
