Weak Hydro Output Pushes India's Power Deficit to Highest Level Since 2023
What Happened
Eight states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, along with Delhi, have sought additional power from the Centre as India faces its worst electricity shortage in three years. Weak hydropower generation, maintenance shutdowns at power plants, lower wind output and limited battery storage have tightened night-time electricity supplies. India's power deficit climbed to 560 million kWh in September, the highest since August 2023.
Key Takeaways
The shortage highlights India's growing challenge of meeting evening and night-time demand despite rapid renewable-energy expansion. The government is pushing for faster deployment of battery storage systems to better utilize solar power and reduce future supply gaps.