Summer Power Demand expected to be 240 GW and will be adequately met during both day and night

In addition to this, the government has taken the following further measures to meet the power demand during May and June, which is projected to peak at 235 GW during day-time and 225 GW during evening hours for May, and to peak at 240 GW during the day-time and 235 GW during evening hours for June 2024.

• Similar to that done for imported coal-based power plants, Section 11 directions have been issued to gas-based power plants too. This has made available an additional 6 GW for May, and June, in addition to the 10 GW already available earlier.
• Optimization of hydropower generation has made available an additional 4 GW for meeting the demand during May, and June.
• Further, the shifting of planned maintenance and minimization of partial and forced outages of thermal power plants have made available another 5 GW for the summer season.
• Further compared to April, power generated from wind is expected to increase by 4 GW to 5 GW during May and June.

Thus, with the above measures in place and given the current generation trend and the anticipated above-normal monsoon in the following months as predicted by the IMD, it is expected that the power demand would be adequately met both during the day and during night hours in the summer months of May and June 2024.

Summer Power Demand Expected to Reach 240 GW and Will Be Adequately Met During Both Day and Night

As temperatures soar and air conditioners hum to life, the summer power demand in India is expected to hit a peak of 240 gigawatts (GW). Ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted power supply during these high-demand months is crucial. The power sector is geared up to meet this challenge, ensuring that both daytime and nighttime electricity needs are adequately met.

Rising Power Demand in Summer

The scorching summer months bring about a significant increase in electricity consumption, primarily due to the extensive use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators. This surge in demand places a considerable load on the power grid, necessitating robust strategies and preparations to maintain a stable supply.

Preparedness to Meet Peak Demand

1. Enhanced Generation Capacity: Power generation companies have ramped up their capacities to handle the anticipated peak demand. With an installed capacity exceeding 370 GW, the power sector is well-equipped to generate the necessary electricity to meet the 240 GW peak.

2. Optimal Utilization of Resources: Both thermal and renewable energy sources are being strategically utilized to ensure a consistent power supply. Thermal power plants are operating at higher efficiency, while solar and wind energy contributions are maximized during peak sunlight and windy periods, respectively.

3. Grid Management: Advanced grid management techniques are in place to balance supply and demand effectively. Real-time monitoring and control systems help in predicting demand patterns and adjusting power flows to prevent any disruptions.

4. Energy Storage Solutions: To address the variability of renewable energy sources and ensure a steady supply during nighttime, energy storage solutions such as batteries and pumped hydro storage are being deployed. These systems store excess energy generated during the day and release it during the night, ensuring a continuous power supply.

5. Demand Response Programs: Utilities are implementing demand response programs to encourage consumers to reduce their electricity usage during peak hours. Incentives and smart metering systems help in managing the load more efficiently, alleviating pressure on the grid.

Ensuring Reliability and Resilience

1. Infrastructure Upgrades: Investments in upgrading transmission and distribution infrastructure are critical for minimizing losses and enhancing the reliability of the power supply. Strengthening the grid ensures that electricity reaches consumers without significant interruptions.

2. Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance of power plants and prompt repair of any faults in the grid infrastructure are essential for preventing outages. Scheduled maintenance activities are being prioritized to ensure all systems are in optimal condition during the high-demand summer months.

3. Coordination and Collaboration: Effective coordination between different stakeholders, including power generation companies, grid operators, and regulatory bodies, is crucial for seamless operations. Collaborative efforts ensure that any potential issues are swiftly addressed, maintaining a steady power supply.

Conclusion

As India braces for a peak summer power demand of 240 GW, the power sector is fully prepared to meet this challenge head-on. Through enhanced generation capacity, optimal resource utilization, advanced grid management, and robust infrastructure, the sector is well-equipped to provide reliable electricity supply both day and night. These comprehensive measures ensure that consumers can stay cool and comfortable, even during the hottest days of the year.

Stay informed about power updates and energy-saving tips to help manage demand efficiently. Together, we can ensure a stable and resilient power supply throughout the summer.

• Government takes measures to operationalize Gas-based Power Plants to help meet Summer Electricity Demand
• Steps being taken by the Government to meet Summer Electricity Demand in the country