As unrelenting heat wave makes power demand spike, utilities told to be on high alert
power ministry has announced it has directed all utilities to «maintain a high state of alert and minimize forced equipment outages» due to the increased electricity demand driven by the ongoing heatwave, particularly in the northern region where the monsoon has yet to arrive.
The ministry's statement highlighted that the northern region has faced high electricity demand since May 17, 2024, due to the heatwave. Despite these tough conditions, the highest-ever peak demand of 89 GW in the northern region was successfully met on June 17, 2024.
This was achieved by importing 25-30 percent of the region's power needs from neighboring regions, the ministry noted.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that heatwave conditions in North-West India will ease starting June 20.
To meet the rising electricity demand and ensure an adequate power supply across the country, the Ministry of Power has taken several steps to handle the record peak demand of 250 GW this summer.
The ministry projects that peak demand could reach 260 GW during this season.
These measures include directives under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, mandating imported coal-based (ICB) plants to continue providing generation support during periods of high demand.
These measures include directives under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, 2003, requiring imported coal-based (ICB) plants to continue providing generation support during the high demand period.
The ministry has directed power generating units to minimize planned
