India is preparing for a sharp rise in electricity consumption as temperatures continue to climb, prompting the Centre to activate a nationwide strategy aimed at preventing blackouts during peak summer months.

According to officials from the Power Ministry, the country’s peak power requirement reached 256 gigawatts on April 25 and climbed further to 265 gigawatts by May 20. Authorities now estimate that demand could touch 271 gigawatts in June and rise to nearly 283 gigawatts in July if the heatwave intensifies.

Senior ministry officials briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy about the preparedness plan designed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the high-demand season.

As part of the measures, the government has reportedly instructed all thermal power stations to remain fully operational through the summer. Routine maintenance shutdowns are being deferred to maximise electricity generation capacity.

Officials believe this decision alone could add nearly 15,000 megawatts of additional supply to the national grid, helping states cope with soaring consumption levels.

The government also stated that coal availability for power generation remains stable for now, although reserve levels are currently lower than the standard buffer requirement. Authorities said coal stocks presently cover around 18 days of demand, compared to the usual benchmark of roughly 30 days.

Energy officials also acknowledged concerns surrounding global fuel supplies due to rising tensions in West Asia. Disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil and gas shipping routes — have affected international energy movement and prices. To reduce risk, alternative gas cargo arrangements are reportedly being explored, including supplies from Nigeria.

Alongside conventional energy sources, the government is planning greater use of renewable power to balance demand pressures. Hydropower generation is expected to be conserved during daytime hours when solar production remains high, while improved wind generation from June onward is anticipated to support grid stability.

Sources further indicated that Uttar Pradesh has sought additional electricity-sharing support to manage growing demand, and the Centre has assured necessary assistance.

The Power Ministry has maintained that the country is adequately prepared to handle the anticipated record-breaking electricity load this summer.