India’s power consumption rose significantly in December 2024, marking a nearly 6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The energy demand reached 130.4 billion units (BUs), underscoring the country’s growing electricity needs amid colder weather and rising industrial activities. This growth aligns with the broader economic momentum and reflects the robust energy requirements of a rapidly developing nation.

Key Highlights of the Surge

• Peak Power Demand: December 2024 recorded a peak demand of 224.16 gigawatts (GW), compared to 213.62 GW in December 2023. This is a part of an upward trend observed throughout the year, with an all-time high peak demand of 250 GW recorded in May 2024.
• Factors Driving Demand: The increased power usage is attributed to higher consumption of heating appliances during the cold season and steady industrial and commercial growth across the country. Northern India, experiencing harsher winters, contributed significantly to the surge in demand​.

Context and Trends

India’s electricity consumption has been consistently rising, reflecting its economic growth. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that India will add electricity demand equivalent to the current consumption of the UK over the next three years. This growth emphasizes the importance of expanding energy infrastructure, including renewable and thermal power capacities​.

Coal continues to dominate India’s power generation, accounting for about 70% of the energy mix. The government has announced plans to increase thermal power capacity by 88 GW by 2032, focusing heavily on coal-fired plants. This is essential for meeting the growing demand but raises concerns about environmental sustainability​.

Implications for the Future

India’s rising power consumption reflects robust economic and industrial activities, but it also highlights challenges in balancing energy needs with environmental goals. While the government is expanding renewable energy initiatives, coal remains a key component of the energy strategy, which could impact the country’s climate commitments.

To address this, India must continue investing in cleaner energy technologies and improve energy efficiency measures. This dual approach can help manage rising power demand while ensuring sustainable development.

India’s growing power needs are a testament to its economic vigor, but they also present an opportunity to innovate and lead in the global energy transition. As demand continues to rise, effective planning and sustainable energy solutions will be crucial for the nation’s progress​.