Delhi hits 43.9°C as power demand peaks and discoms told to boost infra
NOOR MOHMMED
13/Jun/2025

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Delhi recorded a maximum of 43.9°C, four degrees above normal, with highest peak power demand this summer
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Power demand hit 8,423 MW, prompting minister Ashish Sood to direct discoms to boost supply infrastructure
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IMD forecast light rain and gusty winds up to 60 kmph on June 13, bringing hope of slight temperature relief
The national capital continued to reel under a severe heatwave on Thursday, June 12, 2025, with Delhi recording a maximum temperature of 43.9 degrees Celsius, which is four degrees above normal for this time of year.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature is expected to drop marginally on Friday, as light rain and thundershowers are forecast along with gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 60 kmph.
Meanwhile, the soaring temperature also pushed Delhi’s power demand to a new seasonal high of 8,423 MW at 3:06 p.m., according to the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC). This is the highest recorded demand this summer and follows another record day on Wednesday, when the demand crossed 8,000 MW.
In comparison, Delhi had set its all-time high peak power demand of 8,656 MW back in 2024, indicating the city may be on track to break new records if the heatwave continues.
Delhi Power Minister Holds Urgent Review Meeting
In response to the surging power load, Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood convened a review meeting with top officials from the Power Department and the three power distribution companies (discoms).
The Minister directed them to immediately strengthen infrastructure and ensure that electricity supply remains seamless, even under the current stress.
“Power companies must remain prepared for natural calamities like storms or heavy winds, and should minimise response times for any outages,” said Mr. Sood during the meeting.
Focus on Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
Emphasising the urgent need to diversify Delhi’s energy base, Mr. Sood urged power discoms to fast-track solar energy projects.
“Given Delhi’s rising power demand, it is important to adopt solar energy. It is sustainable and reduces long-term pressure on the grid,” he added.
Delhi has been actively pushing rooftop solar and community solar projects, but adoption remains slow compared to the growing demand from residential, commercial, and industrial consumers.
Weather Forecast Offers Temporary Relief
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted some weather relief on Friday (June 13, 2025).
According to the forecast, light rain or thunderstorms may occur, accompanied by gusty winds blowing at 40-50 kmph, temporarily reaching up to 60 kmph.
The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to settle around 42°C and 29°C, respectively.
Delhi’s Energy Challenge in the Long Term
Experts have warned that heatwave-linked energy spikes may become the norm due to climate change, placing discoms and power infrastructure under intense pressure each summer.
Peak demand is driven by air conditioning units, water coolers, and commercial operations, especially during mid-afternoon to early evening hours.
Delhi's power regulators are already looking into grid resilience, demand response programmes, and battery storage solutions as potential mitigators to avoid blackouts or overloading incidents.
Summary and Next Steps
With temperatures unlikely to fall significantly until the arrival of the monsoon, the Delhi government is focused on real-time response, disaster readiness, and public safety.
The situation is being closely monitored, and further review meetings are expected if demand trends continue upward.
Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated, and conserve power wherever possible.
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