‘How Delhi is losing its cool’: CSE study detects rise in power demand during monsoon

“Heat and humidity stress increase active cooling demand and that has a direct bearing on electricity consumption,” the report stated, adding: “As much as 67 per cent of the daily peak electricity demand in Delhi can be explained by variations in heat index compounded by the lowering of adaptive comfort and changing lifestyles,which is increasing the city’s dependence on mechanical cooling systems.”

It said that the city’s electricity demand touched 8,442 MW on June 12 this year, marking the second-highest peak ever recorded in the Capital. The city’s all-time high peak demand was only 2.5 per cent higher at 8,656 MW, recorded on June 19, last year. The study also noted that between 2015 and 2025, Delhi’s peak electricity demand had risen from 5,846 MW to 8,442 MW — registering a 44 per cent jump in just a decade.

The key findings of the study include that the moderate heat index range of 31-32°C during pre-monsoon months of March to May, when electricity demand remained stable, was breached during monsoon months of June to August, when it sharply rose and stood above 46-50°C.

It also found that 67 per cent of the variation in Delhi’s daily peak electricity demand can be explained by cooling demand response to how hot and humid it feels outside. Further, worsening the situation is the heat island effect on the city as nights remain warmer with the daytime heat not dissipating quickly, leading to an increase in public health risk.

“The analysis of August peak demand shows how the city’s electricity stress is no longer confined to May-June alone, but is now spilling deeper into the monsoon months. In August 2025, the average peak demand was about 2 per cent higher compared to August 2024, despite wetter conditions this year,” CSE said. It added that nearly half of the days in August 2025 (16 out of 31) recorded higher peak demand than the same period in 2024 (see box).

The study stated that heat action plans need a strict compliance framework for implementing thermal comfort measures in buildings. It has also recommended implementation of energy codes for buildings; measures for thermal comfort in buildings, especially affordable housing; cooling shelters and urban design guidelines to expand urban green and waterbodies for a heat-resilient city and to reduce demand for cooling.

The report stated that heat action plans need to address the link between the heat index and peak electricity load, and integrate climate and heat-related indicators into power system planning, improve grid stability, and ensure a reliable supply of power when it is most needed.