India’s Rising Temperatures and Cooling Demands

India faces challenges due to rising temperatures and increasing cooling demands. Since the 1950s, the country’s mean surface temperature has risen by 1°C. This warming trend has accelerated since the economic liberalisation of 1991. The India Meteorological Department reported 77 heatwave events in 2024, resulting in a cumulative 536 days of extreme heat. February 2025 was recorded as the hottest month ever, with an average temperature of 22.04°C. This rise in temperature directly influences electricity demand, particularly during summer months.

Impact on Electricity Demand

The Central Electricity Authority predicts a peak electricity demand increase of nearly 20 gigawatts in 2025. This will rise from 250 gigawatts in May 2024 to approximately 270 gigawatts. The demand surge is primarily due to increased use of cooling appliances.

Cooling Methods in Households

In urban areas, over 90% of households rely on ceiling fans for cooling. However, with rising temperatures, many are turning to air conditioners (AC) and air coolers. According to the National Family Health Survey, 24% of households own an AC or air cooler. Urban households show a higher ownership rate of 40%, compared to 15% in rural areas. Despite this, the overall penetration of ACs remains low compared to other countries.

Growth in AC Sales

The demand for air conditioning units has surged. In 2024, approximately 9.4 million AC units were sold, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. With domestic electricity consumption accounting for a quarter of national consumption, the rising use of ACs is expected to impact overall electricity demand.

Regional Disparities in AC Ownership

AC ownership varies greatly across states. For instance, Punjab has a 70% penetration rate, while states like West Bengal and Bihar hover around 5%. Notably, some of the hottest states have the lowest AC ownership, indicating potential for future growth.

Environmental Concerns

The increasing reliance on air conditioning is closely tied to coal-powered electricity, which exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions. Over 75% of summer electricity is generated from coal. This creates a cycle where rising temperatures lead to higher cooling demands, further increasing carbon emissions.

Futureproofing Cooling Needs

India’s dependence on coal is unlikely to change dramatically in the near future. Energy-efficient air conditioning must be prioritised to manage rising demands. Manufacturers should focus on producing energy-efficient models. Public awareness regarding optimal AC usage can also mitigate unnecessary consumption. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources is crucial for reducing overall electricity use and emissions.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of climate change on India’s electricity demand and supply.
2. Critically examine the role of coal in India’s energy production and its environmental implications.
3. What are the socio-economic effects of rising temperatures on urban and rural populations in India? Discuss.
4. Explain the importance of energy efficiency in air conditioning. How can it contribute to reducing carbon emissions?

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of climate change on India’s electricity demand and supply.

1. Mean surface temperature in India has risen by 1°C since 1950, leading to increased electricity demand.
2. In 2024, the Central Electricity Authority predicts a peak demand increase of 20 GW due to rising cooling needs.
3. Heatwaves have become more frequent, with 77 events recorded in 2024, further straining electricity supply.
4. Over 75% of summer electricity is generated from coal, denoting reliance on fossil fuels amidst rising demand.
5. Urban households predominantly use cooling appliances, affecting peak electricity consumption during summer months.

2. Critically examine the role of coal in India’s energy production and its environmental implications.

1. Coal is the dominant energy source in India, supplying over 75% of summer electricity generation.
2. Coal-fired power plants have seen a 5.5% average annual growth over the past two years, increasing carbon emissions.
3. Rising temperatures drive higher electricity demand, perpetuating reliance on coal and worsening climate change.
4. Coal-based electricity generation creates a vicious cycle of increasing temperatures and cooling demands.
5. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is essential to mitigate environmental impacts and reduce emissions.

3. What are the socio-economic effects of rising temperatures on urban and rural populations in India? Discuss.

1. Urban areas face increased electricity costs as demand for cooling appliances rises amidst extreme heat.
2. Rural households, with lower AC ownership (15%), may struggle more with heat, impacting health and productivity.
3. Disparities in AC access highlight socio-economic divides, with wealthier urban households more equipped for heat.
4. Rising temperatures can exacerbate health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations in both urban and rural settings.
5. Economic productivity may decline due to heat stress, affecting labor-intensive industries and rural livelihoods.

4. Explain the importance of energy efficiency in air conditioning. How can it contribute to reducing carbon emissions?

1. Energy-efficient ACs reduce electricity consumption, directly lowering carbon emissions associated with electricity generation.
2. Improving AC efficiency can alleviate pressure on the electricity grid during peak demand periods, enhancing reliability.
3. Public awareness campaigns about optimal AC usage can further reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
4. Manufacturers should be encouraged to produce higher-rated energy-efficient models to boost market competitiveness.
5. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources alongside energy-efficient appliances is vital for long-term sustainability and emissions reduction.