Power Consumption In India Grows 9% To 984.39 Billion Units In April-October

The peak power demand stood elevated at about 241 GW during the reporting period in FY24, as against 215.88 GW logged in the April to October period in 2022-23. 

India’s power consumption increased 9.4 per cent to touch 984.39 billion units in the April to October period in the current fiscal year, as compared to 899.95 billion units consumed in the same period a year earlier, data from the power ministry revealed.

The data stated that this increase was attributed to the improvement in economic activities and weather conditions, reported PTI. Another metric, the peak power demand, stood elevated at about 241 GW during the reporting period in FY24, as against 215.88 GW logged in the April to October period in 2022-23. 

The nation’s power consumption increased by about 22 per cent to 138.94 billion units (BU) in October, indicating a growth in electricity demand owing to the festivities and boost in economic activities. The power consumption for the same month last year was recorded at 113.94 BU, and 112.79 BU in 2021, government data revealed. 

The report quoted a spokesperson for Tata Power Delhi Distribution Ltd, who noted that electricity consumption in the last few months has increased substantially. During October 2023, the power consumption in the area of operation of the firm increased 10.16 per cent to 845 million units (MU), against 767 MU on a year-on-year (YoY) basis. This demand has remained elevated due to the delay in winter onset this year. 

Further, the spokesperson cited the festive activities in the month also led to the surge in demand. At the same time, the representative noted that power consumption during the April to May period remained on the lower end due to a mild summer this year, as compared to the same period last year. The demand started growing in July due to the extremely humid conditions in the region. 

However, peak supply reached a new high of 224.1 GW in June and then dropped to 209.03 GW in July later on. Peak demand touched 238.19 GW in August, while it reached almost 241 GW in September. 

Industry experts stated that power consumption from March to June this year was impacted by the widespread rainfall. The double-digit growth in power consumption in October is indicative of the impact of festivities and improved economic activities. Going ahead, this demand is projected to remain steady on account of the festive season.