India
oi-Swastika Sruti
India is currently facing one of its hottest summers in recent years, and the extreme heat is now putting massive pressure on the country’s electricity system.
India recorded an all-time peak power demand of 257.37 GW on Monday, driven by intense heatwaves and high usage of cooling appliances across states like Delhi and Punjab. Authorities anticipate further demand increases, potentially reaching 270 GW, as extreme temperatures persist across North India.
As temperatures continue to rise across several states, India’s peak power demand touched an all-time high of 257.37 gigawatts (GW) on Monday, according to data from the Power Ministry.
The sharp rise in electricity consumption is mainly being driven by heavy use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners, coolers, and fans as people struggle to cope with the intense heatwave conditions.
India Records Highest-Ever Power Demand
On May 18, India recorded a peak power demand of 257.37 GW at around 3:42 PM. This broke the previous record of 256.11 GW, which was set on April 25 this year.
Despite the huge pressure, the country successfully managed to meet the entire electricity demand without major shortages.
Officials from the Power Ministry have already projected that power demand may rise even further and touch 270 GW during the peak summer season.
Experts believe electricity usage will continue increasing as temperatures rise in the coming weeks.
Heatwave Conditions Intensify Across North India
The extreme weather conditions are being linked directly to the surge in electricity demand.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), large parts of northwest and central India are expected to experience severe heatwave conditions this week.
States including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh are likely to face extremely high temperatures till May 24.
In some regions, temperatures have already crossed dangerous levels.
- Bathinda in Punjab recorded a scorching 47°C
- Several parts of Haryana and Rajasthan crossed 46°C
- Delhi touched nearly 44°C on Monday
The IMD has warned that the heatwave could become more intense in the coming days.
Delhi Faces “Peak Summer” Conditions
Residents of Delhi are currently experiencing what weather experts describe as “peak summer” conditions.
The national capital recorded its hottest day of the season on Monday, with Safdarjung – the city’s base weather station – recording a maximum temperature of 43.4°C.
The weather department has issued a yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Delhi NCR till May 22.
The city is expected to continue witnessing temperatures above 40°C over the next few days with no immediate relief in sight.
Strong hot winds, clear skies, and dry weather conditions are making outdoor movement extremely difficult for commuters and workers.
Why Is Delhi So Hot Right Now?
Weather experts say the intense heat is mainly due to the absence of western disturbances and cyclonic activity that usually help cool temperatures during this period.
According to weather expert Mahesh Palawat from Skymet Weather:
“Dry and hot winds from the west and northwest are affecting the city. No major relief is expected in the coming week.”
Without rain-bearing systems or cloud cover, the heat continues to build up across northern India.
Temperature Readings Across Delhi
Different weather stations in Delhi recorded unusually high temperatures on Tuesday morning as well.
Safdarjung: 28.2°C minimum temperature
Palam: 28.1°C
Lodhi Road: 27°C
Ridge: 28.1°C
Ayanagar: 27.4°C
Most readings were above the seasonal average, showing how unusually warm the nights have become as well.
Rising Use of ACs and Coolers Driving Electricity Consumption
Experts say electricity demand is rising because households, offices, malls, and businesses are relying heavily on cooling devices throughout the day.
Air conditioners, desert coolers, refrigerators, and fans are operating continuously in many cities due to the unbearable heat.
Commercial areas are also consuming more electricity to maintain indoor cooling systems.
This combination of residential and commercial demand is placing heavy pressure on the national power grid.
Air Quality Remains Moderate
Even as temperatures rise, Delhi’s air quality remained in the “moderate” category on Tuesday morning. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 189 at around 9 AM.
However, experts warn that dry winds and heat can worsen pollution levels over time.
The IMD has advised people to take precautions during the ongoing heatwave, especially children, elderly citizens, and people suffering from chronic illnesses.
Some important safety measures suggested include:
- Avoid direct heat exposure during afternoon hours
- Wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothes
- Cover the head with a hat, cloth, or umbrella
- Drink enough water even if not feeling thirsty
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours whenever possible
The weather department also advised people to keep fire extinguishers at home and in vehicles due to increased fire risks during extreme heat.
India May Face an Even Tougher Summer Ahead
With temperatures still rising and June yet to arrive, experts believe India may witness even higher electricity demand in the coming weeks.
Last summer, the country’s peak power demand reached 242.77 GW in June 2025. This year, the number has already crossed 257 GW in May itself.
The situation highlights how climate conditions, rising urban temperatures, and increasing dependence on cooling appliances are rapidly changing India’s energy needs.
For now, millions across northern India continue to battle intense heat while authorities prepare for an even harsher summer ahead.
