Bhopal: As summer intensifies sharply across Madhya Pradesh this year, electricity demand in the state has witnessed a significant rise, driven largely by soaring temperatures and increased cooling requirements in homes, offices, and commercial establishments. Data comparing peak power demand between May 1 and May 23 of 2025 and 2026 shows that average peak demand this May has risen by around 10% over the same period last year.
Record Peak Demand
The state's highest peak demand till May 23 last year stood at 13,882 MW, recorded on May 3, 2025. This year, however, demand has already breached the 15,000 MW mark, touching 15,038 MW on May 19 — an increase of nearly 8.3% over last year's peak. The rise in electricity consumption comes amid a harsher summer across the state.
Temperature Extremes
While last year's highest temperature in May was recorded at 46 degrees Celsius in Khajuraho, this year the mercury has already crossed 47 degrees Celsius in parts of the state. In Bhopal too, the impact has been visible. The state capital recorded a maximum temperature of 42.2 degrees Celsius during the entire month of May last year, but this season temperatures have already crossed 44 degrees Celsius.
Increased Cooling Usage
Energy department officials said the steep rise in temperatures has directly translated into higher use of air conditioners, coolers, fans, and water pumps, particularly during afternoon and evening hours. Despite the spike, officials maintained that there has been no power shortage and the grid has been managing the higher load comfortably.
Outlook and Agricultural Demand
Power demand usually rises further during the irrigation season due to agricultural consumption, but officials said current demand levels remain manageable even though they are significantly above last year's summer levels. With forecasts indicating continued heatwave conditions over several parts of the state, electricity demand is expected to remain elevated through the remainder of May.
Key data points: May 2025 highest peak demand was 13,882 MW on May 3, 2025; May 2026 highest peak demand so far is 15,038 MW on May 19, 2026, representing an 8.3% increase.
