With maximum temperatures in the capital surpassing 45 degrees Celsius, Delhi's peak power demand reached a season-high of 7,776 MW. The extreme weather in northwest India has increased the use of air conditioners and other cooling devices, resulting in previously unheard-of levels of electricity demand.
The State Load Dispatch Center (SLDC) recorded a peak demand of 7,776 MW in the afternoon.
According to data released by SLDC, the demand touched 7,776 MW at 3:30 pm, the highest so far this year, with the temperature hovering around 45°C. "For the first time, the city crossed the 7,000 MW mark in April itself this year — a month earlier than in 2024 and 2025," an official from the SLDC said.
ALSO READ: Delhi Sizzles As Temperatures Rises, IMD Issues Yellow Alert For Noida, Gurugram
Early breach underscores intense heatwave, accelerating demand patterns that traditionally peak in June-July
Delhi's highest electricity demand, which was recorded on June 19, 2024, was 8,656 MW. The city's electricity grid is still getting close to this limit due to extreme heatwaves and high cooling requirements, according to data by SLDC.
Nationally, the pattern is similar as India's peak power demand exceeds 260 GW for the first time.
For the first time, India's peak electricity demand exceeded the 260 GW threshold, reaching a record-breaking 260.45 GW as per the SLDC data.
Widespread, intense heatwaves over the subcontinent caused a substantial increase in the use of cooling devices like air conditioners and electric coolers, which led to this historic surge.
ALSO READ: ACs To Get More Expensive? Amid Heatwave, Blue Star MD Flags 8% More Price Hikes Coming
Authorities predict that Delhi's power consumption may surpass 9,000 MW in the upcoming weeks while the summer season is still in its early stages.
With maximum daytime temperatures ranging from 43-45 degrees Celsius, Delhi is currently experiencing a severe and scorching heatwave. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), some places, like Najafgarh and Mungeshpur, have even seen temperatures rise above 46°C to 47°C.
From Tuesday to Friday, the India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for extreme heatwave conditions across the NCR, including Noida and Gurugram.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.