China's Energy Grid Under Threat Amidst Record Heatwaves

On Wednesday, China issued a warning about potential power supply disruptions as citizens faced record temperatures that affected significant regions across the nation.

Amid soaring demand, which exceeded 1.5 billion kilowatts for the first time, energy officials recorded a third unprecedented peak in electricity needs this month. Concurrently, the country's initial nationwide alert on heat-related health risks was deployed.

Weather official Chen Hui identified adverse impacts on power generation from high temperatures, particularly affecting hydropower and photovoltaic efficiency. Authorities will issue alerts to electricity suppliers for implementing strategies like peak-shaving and cross-regional power dispatching.

Amidst escalating temperatures, significantly impacting regions from central Henan to northwestern Xinjiang, the elderly have been advised to minimize outdoor activities, with outdoor workers similarly cautioned against exertion. These temperatures have propelled the national average to near historic highs.

In recent weeks, temperatures surpassed 40 degrees Celsius at 152 national weather observatories, with Xinjiang reaching an extreme of 48.7 degrees C. Further temperature records are anticipated, as authorities brace for a potentially hotter August.

(With inputs from agencies.)