Unexpected Rains Lower India's Peak Power Demand

Intermittent rains have reduced India's peak power demand, which is not expected to reach the projected 277 GW this summer. Continuous rainfall has decreased the usage of cooling appliances, impacting demand projections. Current peak demand has only reached 242 GW, far below the 277 GW envisioned for 2025-26.

Devdiscourse News Desk | New Delhi | Updated: 22-08-2025 17:41 IST | Created: 22-08-2025 17:41 IST

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Country:
India

India's peak power demand is unlikely to touch the projected 277 gigawatts (GW) this summer due to intermittent rains, according to a top government official. This development has significantly reduced the use of cooling appliances like air conditioners, further affecting demand.

Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson of the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), indicated at the BNEF Summit that the anticipated peak demand may not materialize if the current weather pattern continues. The CEA had planned for a maximum demand scenario of 277 GW by 2025-26, expecting lower rainfall.

Despite expectations for a demand spike to 277 GW by September, peak levels this summer only reached 242 GW. Unusual rainfall patterns starting early in April caused this decline. Consequently, India's power demand remains suppressed as rains persist, deviating from typical weather timelines.

(With inputs from agencies.)