India’s electricity consumption recorded a notable 6% year-on-year dip in October, with total power usage falling to 132 billion units, down from around 140.5 billion units a year earlier.
This drop in usage was driven largely by unseasonal rains and a cooler-than-usual weather pattern, which curbed demand for air-conditioning and other cooling appliances across the country. The peak power demand met in October stood at about 210.71 GW, falling from 219.22 GW the same month last year.
Energy experts say this trend may continue into November, as temperatures remain moderate and use of cooling equipment stays lower than normal. The early onset of winter conditions is impacting not just consumption volumes but also peak electricity requirements for households and businesses.
While the cooling demand has fallen, this also means utilities and the grid are experiencing less stress on peak loads, potentially easing pressure on infrastructure. However, a sustained reduction in demand could impact revenue for power producers and utilities, as well as prompt re-evaluation of demand forecasts in upcoming seasons.
In short: consumers are saving electricity unwittingly thanks to the weather, while the power sector is facing a quieter than expected October — with implications for how demand is forecasted in future months.
Source – The Times of India