India’s power consumption increased by 4.04% to 153.99 billion units in April compared to the previous year. The demand for power was initially low due to unseasonal rains, but it surged later in the month. On April 25, the peak power demand reached a record high of 256.11 GW as a heat wave swept across the country, prompting increased use of cooling devices by consumers.
Experts anticipate a further rise in peak power demand, with projections reaching 270 GW for the summer season. Rising temperatures since mid-April have led to a significant uptick in electricity consumption. The India Meteorological Department has noted a rise in temperatures above 5 degrees Celsius in various regions, indicating a heat stress situation in parts of the country.
Last summer, the peak power demand hit 242.77 GW in June 2025, below the government’s estimated 277 GW. Analysts predict a continued increase in power demand and consumption starting from May, as the India Meteorological Department forecasts a harsh summer this year.
Solar energy is playing an increasingly vital role in India’s power sector, aiding in meeting the escalating electricity demand while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The country has surpassed 150.26 GW of installed solar capacity as of March 31, 2026, experiencing rapid growth in the energy sector. This growth has been fueled by substantial annual additions in FY 2025–26, positioning solar energy as India’s fastest-growing power source.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning of an intense heatwave from April to June 2026, with above-normal heatwave days expected in various regions. The northern Indo-Gangetic plains, central India, and eastern coastal states are likely to experience temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, posing a risk to life due to high humidity.
