BS EDIT: India faces record power demand as heatwaves hit early

By Business StandardPublished On Mar 19, 2025

Power demand surges amid rising heat

2025 may be hotter than 2024, India’s hottest year

Shortfall could hit 20 Gw in May-June

Non-solar hours pose a major challenge

Govt boosts coal supply to meet demand

Thermal plants provide 72% of power

Coal reserves up 20% YoY to 53.49 MT

Railways front-loading coal transport

Dedicated Freight Corridor aids coal transport

Eastern DFC reduces strain on passenger trains

Freight shift eased supply during Kumbh Mela

Coastal shipping & waterways explored

Solar power alone can’t meet peak demand

Solar makes up just 16% of total power

Peak demand rises in the evening/night

Storage solutions critical for grid stability

Energy storage is the missing link

Only 5 Gw storage vs. 200 Gw renewable capacity

Battery & pumped hydro storage need scaling

Better storage can stabilise power supply

The way forward for India's power sector

Coal & transport efficiency improving

Energy storage must be prioritised

A strong power strategy is vital for climate goals