India’s power demand hits record 252 GW amid intense heatwave
Heatwave drives power consumption
New Delhi | Desk: The severe heatwave sweeping across several parts of the country, coupled with rising temperatures, has pushed electricity consumption to historic levels. According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Power, India's peak electricity demand touched an all-time high of 252.07 GW on Friday (April 24, 2026).
This figure marks the highest record ever recorded, surpassing the previous peak of 250 GW registered in May 2024.
The excessive use of air conditioners and coolers driven by the unrelenting heat has placed increased strain on the power grid. According to the data, demand stood at 240.12 GW on April 23, witnessing a massive surge within a span of just one day.
Although the Ministry of Power had projected a peak demand of 270 GW for this summer season, current demand remains slightly below this estimate. Experts believe that as mercury levels continue to rise in the coming days, both domestic and commercial consumption are likely to witness further increases.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning stating that heatwave conditions will persist across large parts of Northwest, Central, and East India through this weekend.
Temperatures are expected to become even more severe during the months of May and June, raising apprehensions that new records for electricity demand could be established. Last year, in June 2025, the peak demand recorded was 242.77 GW; however, this year, the figures have already shattered all previous records within the month of April itself.
