Punjab’s power demand hits historic 16,836 MW amid intense heatwave; power cuts likely to stabilise grid
PTC Web Desk: As Punjab enters the third phase of its initiative to supply farmers with eight hours of uninterrupted electricity for paddy transplantation, the state’s power demand has surged to record-breaking levels. On Wednesday afternoon, the demand peaked at a staggering 16,836 megawatts (MW)—the highest ever recorded in the state's history.
According to sources, the soaring demand may compel the authorities to initiate load shedding to stabilise the grid and maintain demand below the critical 17,000 MW threshold.
Over the past week, Punjab’s electricity demand has risen sharply. Until recently, daily consumption remained under 11,000 MW due to relatively mild weather. However, as temperatures spiked and agricultural electricity needs escalated, demand jumped by over 5,000 MW in just four days. On Monday (June 9), PSPCL supplied approximately 3,295 lakh units, meeting a peak demand of 15,640 MW.
This dramatic increase—largely attributed to an ongoing heatwave and the simultaneous start of paddy sowing—has intensified pressure on the state’s power infrastructure. Wednesday's consumption shattered the previous high of 16,249 MW set just a day earlier on June 10, and surpassed last year’s peak of 16,089 MW, recorded on June 29, 2024. On the same date in 2024, demand was significantly lower at 13,761 MW.
Currently, Punjab’s limit from the Northern Grid stands at 10,400 MW, while the state's own generation capacity under optimal conditions is roughly 6,500 MW. All available thermal power stations are operating at full output, contributing approximately 5,200 MW.
Here's a breakdown of current generation:
State-run thermal plants:
Ropar: 680 MW
Lehra Mohabbat: 830 MW
Goindwal: 505 MW
Private sector plants:
Rajpura: 1,325 MW
Talwandi Sabo: 1,860 MW
Additionally, hydroelectric units, including three operational turbines at Ranjit Sagar Dam, are generating power during peak afternoon hours to help balance the load.
With the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting continued harsh weather conditions, PSPCL is preparing contingency measures to avoid grid instability.
- PTC NEWS
