India’s peak power demand reached 256.11 GW at 3:38 PM on 25 April 2026, during a heatwave across north-western and central India. The figure exceeded the previous high of 252.07 GW recorded on 24 April 2026 and the 240.12 GW recorded on 23 April 2026.
Peak Electricity Demand
Peak electricity demand is the highest level of power consumption recorded in a day or a season. In India, peak demand is measured in gigawatts, and 1 GW equals 1,000 MW.
- India’s peak demand of 256.11 GW was recorded in April 2026, which is earlier than the usual May-June period for high summer demand.
- The power ministry had projected a summer peak demand of 270 GW for 2026, and some estimates place it near 271 GW.
- In 2025, India’s peak power demand reached 242.77 GW in June and 235.32 GW in April.
State-Wise Demand Data
Several states recorded high electricity demand on 25 April 2026. Maharashtra recorded 31,721 MW, Uttar Pradesh 26,032 MW, Gujarat 25,360 MW, Tamil Nadu 20,913 MW, Karnataka 17,621 MW, and Madhya Pradesh 14,075 MW.
Heatwave Conditions In India
The India Meteorological Department projected heatwave conditions over large parts of north-western, central, and eastern India in May and June 2026. On 26 April 2026, maximum temperatures ranged from 40°C to 46°C across most parts of the country, and Akola in Maharashtra recorded 46.9°C.
Cooling Demand And Power Use
Electricity demand rises during hot weather because households and commercial establishments use air conditioners, air coolers, and other cooling appliances. The power system in India includes generation, transmission, distribution, and grid management functions under the electricity sector.
Grid And Demand Management
The Grid Controller of India Ltd and the power ministry monitor real-time electricity demand and supply in the national grid. Peak demand data is used for planning generation capacity, transmission availability, and seasonal load management.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026