Mercury soars across India might increase risk of deepening power crisis

New Delhi: Even the month of February is not over yet but the sun has started showing its heat. In some parts of India, the demand for electricity has almost reached a record level after the increase in temperature. Last week, the temperature in some parts of the country was 11 degree Celsius above normal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has expressed concern about the production of wheat and other crops in view of the heat. Due to the increase in temperature, the moisture of the fields is rapidly running away, in which case the yield can be affected.

According to the report, due to the increase in temperature, the way the demand for electricity has increased in the recent weeks, according to the hot summer of May-June, it may become difficult. Electricity demand reached 211 GW in January, which is a very close figure compared to the previous summer. Last year, after the removal of the Corona lockdown, there was severe heat in the country. Even mercury had broken its record of 122 years.

A new crisis may arise in front of the country
This time the country has seen an unusual onset of hot weather. In such a situation, it is being speculated that due to increase in heat, electricity consumption will increase due to cranking of irrigation pumps and air conditioners. In such a situation, there is also a concern that if the demand suddenly increases, then a new crisis may arise in front of the country regarding electricity. Last year also there was a shortage of electricity in the country.

Power companies operating on imported coal have already been instructed to generate at full capacity to avoid blackouts during the summer season and ease pressure on domestic coal supplies. According to the Ministry of Power, the demand for electricity in April could set a new high of 229 GW.

Rajasthan is a hub of solar energy, yet can struggle to ensure adequate power supplies during summer months if there are delays receiving coal from mines in other regions.

In Rajasthan, Electricity Minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati has said that the way the temperature is rising, this situation is becoming a matter of concern for us. The temperature in February has been quite unusual. He said that compared to last year, an increase of 20 to 30 percent can be seen in the demand for electricity this time. In such a situation, there is no other option but to cut the power supply.