Surge in Power Demand Due to Soaring Temperatures
The state of Assam is grappling with an unprecedented surge in power demand as heatwaves continue to grip the region. The demand for power has jumped by 400 megawatts (MW) within just one month, from August to September 2024, driven by scorching temperatures and deficit rainfall. According to the Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL), the power demand reached a record high of 2809.27 MW on September 20, surpassing previous records.
Record-High Power Demand Strains Assam’s Supply Capacity
On August 22, the state’s power demand stood at 2400 MW, but by September 20, the demand had surged by 409 MW to reach an all-time high. APDCL officials revealed that they were able to supply 2300 MW on August 22 against the demand of 2400 MW. However, by September 20, despite the significant increase in demand, APDCL managed to meet only 2684 MW out of the total 2809 MW required.
This increase in power demand is largely attributed to the rising temperatures caused by the ongoing heatwave, which has left residents relying heavily on electricity for cooling appliances. The situation is expected to worsen in the coming weeks as the heatwave intensifies.
Power Shortage Linked to Limited Supply from Generation Sources
The Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (AGCL), which is responsible for generating power for APDCL, has been unable to meet the growing demand due to supply constraints from its power projects. Despite having a total generation capacity of 420 MW from six running power units, AGCL is currently supplying only 256 MW during off-peak hours and 307 MW during peak hours.
In response to the shortfall, APDCL has been purchasing additional power from 29 external sources at significantly higher prices. The company is reportedly spending Rs 6,000 crore annually on power purchases to keep up with the increasing demand. Among these sources, power from nine NEEPCO power stations and three other stations in the Northeast region supplies 766 MW during off-peak hours and 1082 MW during peak hours, falling short of the agreed supply of 1389 MW.
NTPC, another major power supplier to Assam, provides 350 MW during off-peak hours and 358 MW during peak periods, against an agreement to supply 446 MW.
Rural and Urban Areas Reeling Under Power Cuts
The rising power demand has led to widespread load shedding across the state, including in the capital city, Guwahati. While urban areas face sporadic power outages, the situation is particularly dire in rural regions, where frequent and prolonged power cuts are disrupting daily life. Residents have voiced their concerns, demanding immediate solutions to mitigate the impact of load shedding as the heatwave continues to push temperatures to new highs.
In conclusion, Assam’s power infrastructure is being stretched to its limits due to the soaring demand caused by extreme weather conditions. As temperatures continue to rise, the pressure on the state’s power supply will only increase, prompting calls for urgent interventions to stabilize the situation and ensure reliable electricity access for all citizens.
Also Read: Guwahati Uproar: Over 200 Trees Felled for Government Projects Amid Public Outrage
