India’s electricity consumption rose 10.93 per cent year-on-year to 170.70 billion units (BU) in July 2026, driven by persistently high humidity levels that significantly increased the use of air conditioners, coolers and other cooling appliances across the country. Power consumption stood at 153.88 BU during the same month last year.

The country’s peak power demand also climbed sharply to 270.20 GW in July, compared with 220.74 GW a year earlier. The figure came close to India’s all-time peak demand record of 270.82 GW, reflecting the growing pressure on the national grid during periods of high temperatures and humid weather.

According to power sector experts, while monsoon showers moderated actual temperatures in many regions, high humidity increased the “feels-like” temperature, resulting in greater dependence on cooling appliances throughout the day. This surge in residential and commercial electricity usage became the primary driver of higher power demand during the month.

The increase in electricity consumption comes even as India continues to add renewable energy capacity at a rapid pace. Record solar and wind generation during July helped diversify the country’s power mix, although conventional thermal power plants remained critical in meeting peak demand, particularly during evening hours when solar generation declines.

Industry analysts expect electricity demand to remain robust through August if humid weather conditions persist. The sustained rise in cooling-related consumption highlights the need for continued investments in power generation, transmission infrastructure, energy storage and grid flexibility to ensure reliable electricity supply while supporting India’s long-term clean energy transition.

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