CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu has witnessed a sharp rise in power demand over the past 16 days due to an unusually high temperature prevailing in many places of the state this September. According to Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) data accessed by TNIE, the state’s power demand increased by over 30% this month.
On September 1, the state’s electricity demand was 13,709 MW, with a consumption of 314.966 million units (MU). However, by mid-September, this surged to 17,974 MW, with consumption touching 404.293 MU.
A senior official from Tangedco told TNIE, “The state’s record power demand of 20,830 MW was recorded on May 2, 2024, during the peak summer months. The demand stabilised between 13,000 MW and 16,000 MW from June to September this year. We did not expect a sudden surge in September, similar to the summer months.”
He added despite the increased demand, Tangedco has managed to ensure an uninterrupted power supply to its 3.5 crore consumers. “This has been possible due to the contribution of wind power and electricity sourced from the central government.
Currently, Tangedco receives around 100 MUs daily from the central government and nearly 80 MUs from wind energy, as this season is favourable for wind power generation” he added.
Another official also highlighted that Tangedco is only utilising 50% to 60 % of its coal-based thermal power stations due to the availability of wind energy. “If the demand continues to rise, we are prepared to increase thermal power generation,” the official said.
In addition to wind, solar power generation has also seen a boost, thanks to the clear skies and strong sunlight. The state generated 6,329 MW from solar power on Monday, contributing to meeting the rising demand.
Tangedco has assured the public that despite the rising demand, there will be no power cuts, as they are well-prepared to meet the state’s electricity needs.