India witnessed a 9.69 per cent increase in power generation in April, reaching 153.77 billion units (BU) amid rising temperatures and escalating power demand, according to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA). The surge is marked by a peak demand of 235 GW, recorded on May 22, the highest so far this year.
Thermal power led the rise with a 10.87 per cent year-on-year increase, generating 123.50 billion units. Despite this substantial growth, the output fell short of the month’s target of 161.71 million units.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that April saw some of the highest temperatures over eastern and northeastern India since 1901, and the second highest over southern India. This increase in temperature has significantly influenced the power demand, particularly for cooling purposes.
Power consumption mirrored this trend with a significant increase last month, registering at 144.25 billion units. This marked a 10.49 per cent rise from 130.55 billion units recorded during the same period last year.
Renewable power sources, including solar, wind, and small hydro projects, also saw an uptick in generation. Renewable power generation increased by 8.93 per cent to 17.99 million units. Nuclear power generation stood out with a 21.09 per cent increase from the previous year, reaching 4.21 million units.
In contrast, hydro power generation from large projects continued its downward trajectory, with only 7.99 million units generated in April 2024, a 7.71 per cent decline from April last year. The reduction has been primarily linked to low rainfall and decreasing reservoir levels.
With the current heatwave conditions in several parts of the country expected to persist, power demand and consumption are projected to continue their upward trajectory through May.
The peak power demand in the country has already reached 235 GW and is expected to surge even higher. The CEA estimates that the peak demand might hit a record 260 GW later this year. On May 22, the national capital recorded a historic peak demand of 8000 MW, reflecting the acute need for power as the mercury rises.
This sustained increase in power demand highlights the growing pressure on India’s power infrastructure and underscores the need for robust energy planning and management to accommodate the rising needs, especially during the intense summer months. The strategic expansion of renewable energy sources is also critical as the country continues to diversify its energy mix in response to climatic challenges and the global shift towards sustainable energy practices.
