Amid these projections, the minister asserted that the country is well-positioned to manage immediate demand pressures.
India Power Demand 2026: Govt Prepares for 270 GW Peak, Assures No Shortage
India’s electricity demand is expected to see a sharp rise in the coming years, driven by emerging technologies and changing consumption patterns, Union Power Minister Manohar Lal said on Thursday. He noted that sectors such as artificial intelligence and data centres will significantly increase power requirements, requiring an additional 30 gigawatts of capacity over the next five to six years.
Amid these projections, the minister asserted that the country is well-positioned to manage immediate demand pressures. He said preparations are in place to meet peak electricity demand of up to 270 gigawatts this summer, adding that there will be no shortage during the high-consumption months of May and June.
The remarks were made at the India Electricity Summit 2026, where he highlighted the steady rise in demand, pointing out that it stood at around 250 gigawatts two years ago.
He also referred to factors such as the growing use of electric vehicles and induction-based appliances, particularly in the context of the ongoing West Asia situation, as contributors to rising consumption.
Highlighting infrastructure growth, he said power transmission lines in the country have expanded by 72 percent over the past decade, ensuring stable and reliable supply.
