The upcoming summer may witness 3,000 MW of load shedding. Government Plans to Boost Power Generation Amid Summer Load Shedding Concerns. To meet electricity demand in the summer, the government plans to increase power generation from gas and furnace oil while utilizing the full capacity of Adani’s power plant. Power advisor Faujul Kabir Khan stated that even in extreme temperatures, load shedding would remain below 1,500 MW.
The upcoming summer: However, experts warn that the power sector is under significant pressure due to outstanding bills, fuel shortages, and other challenges. They fear that load shedding could exceed 3,000 MW.
During Ramadan, electricity demand in the country could reach 15,500 MW. The power department has assured that uninterrupted electricity supply will be maintained during this period. In summer, the demand for electricity rises due to irrigation and increased use of air conditioners. Last year, the highest recorded generation was 16,477 MW, but most of the time, available supply remained around 15,000 MW. At that time, load shedding exceeded 2,000 MW.
This summer, the highest electricity demand is projected to be 18,000 MW. To meet this, the government has requested full-capacity electricity from Adani’s Jharkhand plant and is emphasizing power generation from gas and furnace oil-based plants.
Power advisor Faujul Kabir Khan said, “We are working based on an estimated demand of 18,000 MW. However, our initial assessment suggests that load shedding could range between 700 MW and 1,400 MW.”
Experts point out that the Power Development Board has significant outstanding dues to private sector power plants. Payments for imported electricity from Adani are also delayed. Additionally, ensuring gas supply to industries and fertilizer factories limits the availability of gas for power generation.
Energy expert Izaz Hossain stated, “We don’t yet know how extreme the summer heat will be this year. If everything goes against us, meeting the demand will be extremely challenging. The government has estimated 1,500 MW of load shedding, but in my view, at times, it could reach up to 3,000 MW.”
