"India's Soaring Power Demand Amidst Severe Heatwaves: A Summer Struggle"

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"India's Soaring Power Demand Amidst Severe Heatwaves: A Summer Struggle"

Team Finance Saathi

24/May/2024

Key Points:

1: India's power demand reaches seasonal high at 237 GW, surpassing previous records amidst severe heatwaves.
2: Ministry of Power emphasizes zero load shedding and adequate planning to meet escalating summer electricity needs.
3: Indian Meteorological Department projects higher-than-normal temperatures, contributing to rising energy demand.

India is facing a formidable challenge as its power demand surges to seasonal highs amidst scorching heatwaves. Data from the Ministry of Power reveals that on Thursday, May 23, the nation's power demand peaked at 237 gigawatts (GW), surpassing the previous record of 234 GW earlier in the week. This surge in demand is primarily attributed to the widespread heatwave gripping significant parts of the country, prompting round-the-clock use of air conditioners and coolers.

The government had anticipated a power demand ranging between 225-235 GW for the month of May. However, the actual demand has exceeded expectations, indicating the severity of the ongoing heatwave. Looking ahead to June, power demand is projected to escalate further, with estimates ranging between 235-240 GW during the evening and 240 GW during the daytime. Delhi, the capital city, has witnessed its peak power demand soaring to unprecedented levels, reflecting the intensifying heatwave conditions.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the heatwave is expected to persist over the plains of Northwest India, with severe heatwave conditions prevailing in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat over the next five days. In the past day, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions has gripped various regions, including West Rajasthan, East Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu division, Haryana, Gujarat, West Madhya Pradesh, and Madhya Maharashtra.

With temperatures soaring, warm night conditions have been observed in parts of Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, and West Rajasthan. Barmer in Rajasthan recorded the highest maximum temperature of 48 degrees Celsius, underscoring the severity of the heatwave. The IMD defines a heatwave as reaching at least 40 degrees Celsius for plains and 30 degrees Celsius for hilly regions.

In response to the escalating power demand, the government is taking proactive measures to ensure electricity supply meets the summer season's requirements. Emphasizing zero load shedding, stakeholders have been urged to undertake adequate planning to avoid imbalances in power distribution among states. The Ministry of Power has conducted a series of meetings to reinforce the importance of preparedness and coordination among all parties involved in the power supply chain.

The challenges posed by the soaring power demand are compounded by the projections of the IMD, which anticipates higher-than-normal maximum and minimum temperatures across most parts of the country. This forecast indicates that the electricity demand will continue to rise, particularly during both solar and non-solar hours.

Statistical data from the Ministry of Power highlights the significant growth in peak energy demand and generation from the previous year. Peak energy demand witnessed a notable increase of 12.7% from 2022-23 to 2023-24, while peak demand met grew by 13.9% during the same period. Moreover, total electricity generated recorded a substantial growth of 7.1%, reflecting efforts to meet the escalating demand.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist, with energy requirements outpacing availability in some regions. However, relative to the previous year, there has been a reduction in the total energy shortfall, indicating progress in addressing the nation's energy needs.

In conclusion, India faces a critical juncture as it grapples with soaring power demand amidst severe heatwaves. The government's proactive measures and coordination efforts are crucial in ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply during these challenging times. With the summer season intensifying and temperatures soaring, effective management of energy resources is imperative to meet the nation's growing electricity needs and mitigate the impact of the ongoing heatwave.

Also read : PM Modi Sparks Debate on Election Commission's Impartiality During Congress Rule

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"India's Soaring Power Demand Amidst Severe Heatwaves: A Summer Struggle"

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