AP Power Grid Scales New Peak As Heat Wave Drives Record Demand

Vijayawada: Power utilities in Andhra Pradesh have successfully managed the highest-ever electricity demand in the state’s history amid severe summer conditions and intense heat wave temperatures this season.

The state grid on May 21 recorded an all-time high energy consumption of 288.9 million units, along with a record day peak demand of 15,016mw and an evening peak demand of 12,474mw. Officials cited this as the highest electricity load ever handled by the state power system.

According to the power utilities, the unprecedented surge in demand was driven by extreme heat wave conditions and high humidity levels prevailing across Andhra Pradesh, with temperatures in several districts nearing 46 degrees Celsius.

The widespread use of air-conditioners, cooling appliances, drinking water systems and agricultural pump sets significantly increased electricity consumption across domestic, industrial, commercial and agricultural sectors.

Despite the extraordinary demand, AP Transco, in coordination with AP Genco and the Discoms, maintained uninterrupted and quality power supply across the state without any major disruption. Officials attributed the achievement to advance planning, continuous grid monitoring, efficient load management and optimum utilisation of available power resources.

Special chief secretary to chief minister, K Vijayanand, said additional power was also procured through short-term market purchases to maintain grid stability during peak demand periods. These measures helped ensure uninterrupted supply to households, farmers, industries, commercial establishments and essential services during the ongoing heat wave season.

Officials said engineers, field staff, system operators and maintenance teams had been working round the clock to maintain reliable power supply and public convenience under challenging weather conditions.