India's electricity demand hits record high amid severe heat

India's power grid faced unprecedented strain as extreme temperatures drove electricity use to new heights. In Delhi, peak demand reached 8,748 MW on June 29, surpassing the previous all‑time high of 8,656 MW recorded on June 19. State Load Dispatch Centre data showed the capital’s demand has crossed the 8,000 MW threshold for the third time this month.

Nationally, total electricity consumption in June rose 11.62% to 166.46 billion units, and the maximum demand hit 264.76 GW, exceeding June 2025 levels. The surge is linked to a prolonged heatwave and a delayed southwest monsoon, which increased use of air‑conditioners and other cooling devices.

Authorities in Delhi and across the country responded by deploying AI‑ and ML‑based demand forecasting, securing green power sources amounting to roughly 2,670 MW, and activating battery energy storage systems to maintain grid stability. The Delhi Electricity Supply Company (BSES) also utilized real‑time power exchange markets to balance renewable supply and ensure reliable electricity delivery to over 22 million consumers.