Heatwave, low hydro output strain state power supply

Dehradun: Uttarakhand is facing a power deficit this summer, with demand exceeding supply amid a heatwave, reduced hydropower generation due to lower river levels, and increased use of induction cooktops during an LPG shortage.State power utility Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd (UPCL) said average demand has risen by around 5% in the current financial year 2026-27.“On April 25, 2024, the peak demand was 2,357 MW. On the same day in 2025, it rose to 2,460 MW, and in 2026 it increased to 2,647 MW,” a UPCL official said, indicating a steady year-on-year rise.The surge in demand has coincided with rising temperatures, with Dehradun recording its highest temperature of the season on Sunday and heatwave-like conditions prevailing across the state.UPCL managing director G S Budiyal said multiple factors have affected supply. “Gas supply to India has been disrupted due to the ongoing West Asia crisis, impacting power generation from gas-based plants with a capacity of 321 MW. We have taken steps to manage the situation through advance power procurement, efficient load and peak demand management, and real-time monitoring,” he said.He added that chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had sought an additional 150 MW from the central pool to meet rising demand.“UPCL has already secured 120 MW for April and 193 MW for May and June from the central pool. We are taking all possible steps to manage demand and optimise available resources. We appeal to people to cooperate till April 30 and conserve power,” Budiyal said.