India's power consumption experienced a slight increase of about 1 per cent, reaching 140.47 billion units (BU) in October compared to the same month last year, mainly due to a higher base effect. In October 2023, power consumption surged over 22 per cent, rising from 113.94 BU to 139.44 BU.


During the same period, the highest daily power supply, or peak power demand met, fell to 219.22 GW in October 2024, down from 221.53 GW in October 2023. Earlier this year, peak power demand reached an all-time high of approximately 250 GW in May, surpassing the previous record of 243.27 GW set in September 2023.


The power ministry had anticipated peak demands of 235 GW during the day and 225 GW in the evening for May, along with projections of 240 GW in the daytime and 235 GW during evening hours for June. Looking ahead, they estimated that peak demand could reach 260 GW this summer.


Experts noted that October 2024 was one of the warmest months in decades around the world, which contributed to the modest growth in both power demand and consumption. This October, the decline in peak power demand indicates the onset of winter, particularly in Northern India, where electricity usage typically rises due to cooling appliances like air conditioners and desert coolers.


However, analysts predict that power demand and consumption will remain steady in the coming days, supported by robust commercial and industrial activities in the country.


Meanwhile, coal production in India increased by 7.4 per cent in October, reaching 84.45 million tonnes (MT), compared to 78.57 MT in the same month last fiscal year, according to a release from the Coal Ministry. Production from captive and other entities also saw significant growth, rising to 16.59 MT in October, up from 11.70 MT during the corresponding month last year.


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