Unseasonal rain, cool weather leads to drop in TN's power demand

IANS May 12, 2025 366 views

Unseasonal rainfall and cooler temperatures have dramatically reduced power demand in Tamil Nadu during April and early May 2025. The Southern Regional Load Despatch Centre reported a significant drop in peak electricity consumption compared to the previous year. Tangedco's projections were exceeded as temperatures remained mild, leading to reduced air conditioning usage. Experts anticipate stable power supply conditions with the upcoming Southwest Monsoon.

"The widespread use of air conditioners is a major factor influencing peak demand." - Tangedco Official
Unseasonal rain, cool weather leads to drop in TN's power demand
Chennai, May 12: Scattered, unseasonal rainfall across various parts of Tamil Nadu has not only brought much-needed respite from the summer heat but also led to a noticeable drop in electricity demand during April and the first half of May this year.

Key Points

1

Unseasonal rainfall reduces power demand by 6%

2

Peak electricity consumption drops significantly in April 2025

3

Weather patterns impact energy consumption

4

Cooler temperatures lower AC usage

Data from the Southern Regional Load Despatch Centre (SRLDC) shows that the State's peak power demand for April 2025 was 20,148 MW, recorded on April 24. This is significantly lower than the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (Tangedco)'s earlier projection of 21,943 MW for the month.

Tangedco had anticipated that demand would surpass the all-time high of 20,830 MW, which was set on May 2, 2024. In contrast to last summer, when power demand surged due to a relentless heatwave, this year's summer has been milder, punctuated by sporadic showers across districts, including Chennai.

These rains have not only cooled down temperatures but also helped reduce household and commercial use of cooling appliances, easing the pressure on the state's power infrastructure.

Power demand data further illustrates this trend. In April 2024, the 20,000 MW mark was breached on eight separate days. However, in April 2025, it was crossed only once. The average peak demand for April last year stood at 19,482 MW, whereas this year it dropped to 18,354 MW -- a reduction of nearly six per cent.

Energy consumption figures reflect a similar pattern. In April 2024, the State consumed 12,648 million units, compared to 11,986 million units in April 2025. Daily energy consumption also fell, from an average of 421 million units per day in April 2024 to 399 million units this April.

Notably, in April 2024, daily consumption crossed 400 million units on 28 days, while in April 2025, it did so on only 16 days.

A senior official from Tangedco confirmed that the decline in demand was closely tied to prevailing weather conditions.

"The widespread use of air conditioners is a major factor influencing peak demand. With relatively cooler temperatures this year, AC usage has been significantly lower," the official said.

With the Southwest Monsoon expected to advance soon, power managers are optimistic about maintaining stable supply conditions in the months ahead.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Finally some good news! The reduced power demand means fewer power cuts in my area. Hope this weather continues a bit longer 🤞. But we should still focus on renewable energy - can't always depend on rains to save us from electricity crisis.
R
Rahul M.
Interesting data! But Tangedco should use this opportunity to upgrade infrastructure. Every summer we face power issues - just because demand is lower now doesn't mean we should relax. Prepare for next year's heatwave!
S
Saranya P.
As a Chennai resident, I'm loving this weather! My electricity bill last month was ₹2000 less than same time last year. But I worry - is this unseasonal rain due to climate change? We need long-term solutions beyond temporary relief.
K
Karthik V.
Good analysis. Shows how weather directly impacts our power grid. Maybe TN should invest more in solar power - when it's hot and demand is high, solar production would also be at peak. Win-win situation no?
A
Anitha S.
While this is positive, I hope the power department doesn't use this as excuse to slow down improvements. Many rural areas still face 8-10 hour cuts daily. Weather relief shouldn't mean complacency in service!
M
Manoj T.
Nature giving us a break this year! 😊 But serious question - with such variation in demand year-to-year, how does Tangedco plan capacity? Either we have shortage or excess - need better forecasting models.

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Tags:
Tamil Nadu Power Electricity Demand Climate Impact Tangedco Power Consumption Energy Trends