India braces for record power demand amid intensifying summer heat

India is preparing for a record surge in electricity demand this summer as rising temperatures and prolonged heatwave conditions push power consumption levels across the country to new highs.

To avoid blackouts and supply disruptions, the Centre has directed thermal power plants to operate at full capacity and ensure uninterrupted coal supply during peak demand months, according to government officials familiar with the matter.

The move comes as several parts of north and central India continue to experience extreme heat conditions, sharply increasing electricity consumption due to higher use of air conditioners, coolers, fans and irrigation systems.

Officials expect India’s peak power demand to surpass last year’s record and potentially cross 280 gigawatts during the ongoing summer season. India had recorded an all-time peak demand of around 250 GW in 2025.

According to the report, all imported coal-based power plants have been instructed to continue operations at full capacity until at least October. Gas-based plants may also be activated during peak demand periods to stabilise supply.

The Centre has also reviewed coal stock levels at thermal plants and asked states to ensure adequate fuel availability to prevent generation disruptions. Coal-fired plants currently account for nearly three-fourths of India’s electricity generation.

The heightened preparations follow warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which has forecast above-normal temperatures and more heatwave days across several regions this summer. Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Maharashtra have already reported temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in recent days.

Power demand typically rises sharply during heatwaves as residential cooling needs increase. Industrial and agricultural consumption also contribute significantly during summer months.

Last year, several states experienced localised power cuts and pressure on grids during peak heat conditions, prompting the government to strengthen preparedness measures earlier this year.

The government has said coordination meetings are being held regularly with power utilities, grid operators and state authorities to monitor supply conditions in real time. The Power Ministry is also tracking daily demand fluctuations to avoid sudden shortages.

Experts say India’s electricity demand has been rising steadily due to economic growth, rapid urbanisation and expanding access to cooling appliances. However, extreme weather events linked to climate change are increasingly placing additional stress on the country’s power infrastructure during summer months.

Energy analysts note that while India has significantly expanded generation capacity over the past decade, maintaining uninterrupted supply during simultaneous nationwide heatwaves remains a major operational challenge.

Officials maintain that current coal stocks and generation capacity are sufficient to meet anticipated demand, provided supply chains remain stable and power plants continue operating at high utilisation levels through the summer.