Peak electricity demand jumps 45-50 GW, prompting coal surge

Recent data shows that daily peak demand this year is running 45 to 50 GW above last year’s levels. The steep rise has put pressure on the power grid, especially during the monsoon season when hydroelectric generation declined due to lower rainfall.

The shortfall forced utilities to rely more heavily on thermal power plants. In September, the electricity deficit rose to 560 million kilowatt‑hours, the highest since August 2023, even as coal‑based plants were operating at increased output.