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India’s power grid faces strain as heat pushes demand over 239 GW
- 2 months ago (2026-04-20)
- David Flin
India’s power grid struggled on 18 April as peak electricity demand hit a record for April of 239 GW, driven by high heat and consequent high cooling demand. This demand was higher than last April’s peak, indicating a hard summer ahead.
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The increased demand has put pressure on the country’s power infrastructure. The main drivers of this demand were air conditioners and agricultural water pumps. The peak of 239 MW exceeds the 235 MW record reached in April 2025. The India Meteorological Department predicts more hot and humid weather to come, issuing heatwave warnings for the states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.
Grid operators are under immediate pressure to supply sufficient electricity, which could affect electricity prices and power plant performance at times of peak demand.
The Ministry of Power forecasts this year’s peak demand could reach 271 GW.