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Delhi's April power demand tops 7,000 MW for first time amid heatwave
Delhi recorded a new April peak for power demand, surpassing 7,000 MW for the first time as heat across the city spiked demand. The 7,078 MW peak was reached at 3:30 PM on April 27, 2026, after a day that also saw record April temperatures and continued high demand through the week.
Why It Matters
The record highlights intensifying energy use during heatwaves and signals potential stress on the grid as summers intensify, with authorities forecasting higher peak loads ahead.
Timeline
7 Events
Officials caution on upcoming summers' peak loads
April 27, 2026
A power department official cautioned that 2026 could be one of the most energy-intensive summers in recent years, with May and June still ahead and peak loads likely to rise further.
Discoms secure supply using technology and flexibility
April 27, 2026
Discoms reported steady supply despite the surge; BSES is using AI and machine learning-based forecasting with IMD-POSCO weather inputs to predict demand, while Tata Power Delhi Distribution lined up power through bilateral agreements, reserve shutdown mechanisms, and exchanges to ensure reliability during peak hours.
Demand stays above 6,000 MW during April 23–28 (period of elevated demand)
April 27, 2026
Between April 23 and 28, Delhi's power demand stayed above 6,000 MW, signaling a sustained surge beyond typical April peaks.
Demand compared with previous Aprils shows a heat-driven rise
April 27, 2026
As of April 27, 2026, Delhi's April power demand was higher than April 2024 on 19 of the first 27 days and higher than April 2025 on 13 days.
Temperature hits 42.3°C, highest April reading in four years
April 27, 2026
Temperatures rose to 42.3°C on April 27, 2026, marking the highest April reading in four years and driving up cooling demand.
Peak demand crosses 7,000 MW in April for first time
April 27, 2026
Peak demand touched 7,078 MW at 3:30 PM as Delhi faced an intense heatwave; this was the earliest time the city recorded a 7,000 MW spike in April.
Delhi records 6,650 MW March/April monthly peak
April 26, 2026
On April 26, 2026, Delhi's power demand rose to 6,650 MW, setting a monthly record ahead of the broader 7,000 MW milestone.