New Delhi, June 1: India’s electricity consumption rose sharply by 11.55 per cent year-on-year to 164.98 billion units (BU) in May, driven by intense heatwave conditions across several parts of the country, according to official data.
The surge in demand was primarily attributed to increased use of cooling appliances such as air conditioners, desert coolers, and fans, as rising temperatures led to higher electricity usage across residential, commercial, and industrial segments.
For comparison, power consumption stood at 147.89 BU in May 2025, reflecting a significant year-on-year increase in overall energy demand.
Peak Demand Hits Record High
The country’s peak power demand also reached a historic high of 270.82 GW in May 2026, compared to 230.99 GW recorded in the same month last year. The sharp rise underscores the impact of prolonged heatwave conditions on electricity consumption patterns.
Rising Demand Reflects Seasonal Pressure
Officials noted that seasonal weather conditions continue to play a major role in shaping India’s electricity demand profile, with summer months typically witnessing elevated consumption levels due to cooling requirements.
The data highlights the growing strain on the power grid during peak summer periods, while also reflecting the expanding energy needs of a growing economy.