India’s power shortage rises to 544 MU in September, highest this year
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India’s electricity shortage rose sharply in September, with the country recording its highest monthly deficit so far this year, according to data from Grid-India.
The energy shortfall increased from 98 million units (MU) in August to 544 MU in September.
The rise came as electricity demand continued to exceed official projections.
According to Central Electricity Authority (CEA) data, actual power demand during April-August of FY27 was 3.3% higher than projected. Electricity requirement during the first five months of the financial year reached 8.19 lakh MU, compared with the projected 7.93 lakh MU.
Actual electricity consumption has also exceeded estimates in 2022-23 and 2023-24. The latest deviation comes as cooling needs, urban consumption and economic activity continue to increase.
Higher-than-expected demand requires power generators and grid operators to arrange additional supply at short notice, putting greater pressure on the electricity system.
The monthly energy shortage stood at 270 MU in April and fell to 120 MU in May. It remained below 200 MU through August before rising sharply to 544 MU in September.
According to the Grid Controller of India, peak power demand reached 248 GW during September, reflecting continued pressure on the grid after the monsoon season.
The rise in shortages comes against a backdrop of higher-than-expected demand, weaker output and pressure on conventional power sources. The increase has raised concerns over whether existing power planning assumptions are keeping pace with consumption.
If electricity demand continues to exceed forecasts, planners may need to reassess projections and strengthen supply preparedness to reduce the risk of shortages in the coming months.