Delhi: Power Demand All-time High At 8,656 MW As Blistering Heatwave Refuses To Abate

On June 19, Delhi's peak power demand reached a record level of 8,656 MW in the afternoon, according to the discom officials. A day before, the peak power demand of Delhi was recorded at 8,647 MW. On May 22, Delhi's peak power demand touched the 8,000 MW milestone for the first time and since then it has breached the 8,000 MW level nine times.

The power department officials privy to the development asserted that increased usage of air conditioners accounted for most of the power demand, as they account for a whopping 30-50 per cent of a household and commercial establishment's annual energy costs.

Discom official said, “Due to the extraordinary heat-wave and consequently unprecedented power demand, the power systems are under stress. Even though they have been able to take the extreme power load, it is advisable that consumers should use the air conditioner thermostat at 26-27 degrees Celsius for comfortable and cost-effective cooling during the peak hours - 2 pm to 4 pm and 10 pm to 12:30 am.”

Heatwave sweeps Delhi, respite likely in some days

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) earlier this week issued a red alert in Delhi and NCR areas over the prevalence of severe heatwave conditions.

• The weather watchdog predicted that temperatures would continue to soar in the national capital till June 20.

• However, Delhi is likely to get a respite from the blistering heat in July as the weather department predicted that monsoon will hit the national capital on June 30.