India generates record power as demand surges in severe heat wave
India has generated a record amount of power as the country experiences a severe heat wave, with peak power demand reaching an all-time high of 270.82 gigawatts. The surge in demand is largely due to the increased use of cooling appliances, with thermal power accounting for 62% of generation. The country's power producers have been able to meet the high demand, despite some reports of power cuts in certain districts.
- ▪India's power producers have set a record for electricity generation, with a peak power demand of 270.82 gigawatts on Thursday.
- ▪The surge in demand is linked to the greater usage of cooling appliances, with thermal power accounting for 62% of generation.
- ▪The country is heavily reliant on coal, despite committing to reach net-zero emissions by 2070.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
May 22, 2026 India generates record power as demand surges in severe heat wave edited by Andrew Zinin Andrew Zinin Lead Editor Meet our editorial team Behind our editorial process Editors' notes This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: fact-checked reputable news agency proofread The GIST Add as preferred source A rickshaw puller in Delhi, where temperatures hit 45C on Thursday. The South Asian country of 1.4 billion people is no stranger to scorching summers, with routine heat waves between April and June.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Phys.org.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Phys.org
