New Delhi (Agency): India witnessed a substantial surge in power consumption, recording a growth of more than 16%, with a total consumption of 151.66 billion units in August this year compared to the same month of the previous year. This escalation is primarily attributed to heightened usage of cooling appliances due to the prevailing sultry weather conditions.
Comparatively, power consumption in August 2022 stood at 130.39 billion units (BU), showcasing a significant increase from 127.88 BU in August 2021, as indicated by government data. Additionally, the peak power demand met, representing the highest daily supply, surged to 236.59 GW in August 2023. This marks a considerable growth from 195.22 GW in August 2022 and 196.27 GW in August 2021.
The power ministry had initially anticipated the country’s electricity demand to reach 229 GW during the summer season. However, this projection was not achieved in April to July due to unseasonal rainfall. Despite this, peak supply reached an all-time high of 223.29 GW in June and remained robust at 208.95 GW in July.
Experts from the industry observed that power consumption faced some disruptions in the months of March, April, May, and June of the current year due to widespread rainfall across the nation. However, they noted a rebound in power consumption and demand during August. This increase is primarily attributed to high humidity levels and an upswing in industrial activities, likely due to the approaching festival season.
The peak power supply reached a record high of 236.59 GW in August and further ascended to an unprecedented level of 239.97 GW on September 1, 2023. Nonetheless, the highest daily power supply experienced a minor decline, reaching 238.62 GW on Saturday and 223.12 GW on Sunday, largely influenced by the closure of various establishments over the weekend.
Industry experts anticipate that power consumption and demand will maintain stability in the forthcoming months. As India navigates through varying climatic conditions and industrial cycles, ensuring consistent and adequate power supply remains a priority to support the nation’s economic growth and societal needs.
India’s power consumption exhibited remarkable growth, surging by over 16% to 151.66 billion units in August 2023. The surge is attributed to increased use of cooling appliances during hot weather and a rise in industrial activities. As the country adapts to changing demand patterns and weather conditions, maintaining a reliable and resilient power infrastructure remains essential for sustaining economic activities and the well-being of its citizens.