India’s power consumption recorded a strong year-on-year increase in December 2025, rising by nearly 7 per cent to 138.39 billion units (BU), compared with 129.39 BU consumed in the same month last year. The increase was primarily driven by severe cold conditions across large parts of the country, leading to higher usage of electric heating appliances in homes and commercial establishments.
The December rebound follows a relatively softer demand trend in November, when electricity consumption had dipped marginally due to milder weather conditions. With temperatures dropping sharply in northern and central regions in December, demand for space heaters, geysers, and other winter appliances rose significantly, pushing overall power usage higher.
Peak power demand, which represents the highest level of electricity supplied at any point during the month, also saw a notable increase. During December, peak demand reached 241.20 gigawatts (GW), compared with 224.23 GW recorded in December 2024. The higher peak underlined the strain placed on the power system during prolonged cold spells.
For perspective, India’s all-time peak power demand stands at around 250 GW, recorded in May 2024 during the summer season. Other recent highs include 243.27 GW in September 2023 and 242.77 GW in June 2024. Official projections have estimated that peak demand could rise to nearly 277 GW during the summer months of 2025, reflecting the country’s steadily expanding electricity needs.
Sector experts attribute the December surge not only to weather conditions but also to sustained economic activity and rising household electrification. With the India Meteorological Department forecasting the continuation of cold wave conditions into early January, particularly in northern states where minimum temperatures have dipped below 5 degrees Celsius, power demand is expected to remain elevated in the near term.
The December data highlights the growing sensitivity of India’s power demand to extreme weather events, both during summers and winters. It also reinforces the need for adequate generation capacity, grid resilience, and fuel availability to manage sharp seasonal spikes in electricity consumption as the country’s energy demand continues its long-term upward trajectory.
