India’s Power consumption flat at 141.36 billion units amid above-normal rainfall
India’s power consumption remained nearly flat at 141.36 billion units (BU) year-on-year, primarily due to above-normal rainfall, which reduced the use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners and desert coolers. The Indian Meteorological Department reported a 10.6 percent excess in rainfall, significantly impacting power consumption. In comparison, power consumption in the same period last year was 141.29 BU, according to official data.
The highest supply in a day (peak power demand met) dropped to 230.60 GW, down from 239.93 GW recorded during the same period a year ago. Earlier this year, peak power demand reached an all-time high of around 250 GW in May, surpassing the previous record of 243.27 GW. The Ministry of Power had projected a peak power demand of 235 GW during the day and 225 GW in the evening hours for May, and 240 GW during the day and 235 GW in the evening for June.
The ministry also estimated that peak power demand could reach 260 GW during the summer months. Experts attributed the stagnant power consumption to the widespread above-normal rainfall, which lowered the need for cooling appliances. However, they expect power demand and consumption to pick up in the coming days with the conclusion of the monsoon season and the onset of industrial and commercial activities related to upcoming festivities.
