Delhi’s peak power demand is set to reach an unprecedented 9000 MW this summer, with over 2100 MW of green power playing a crucial role in ensuring reliable electricity supply, according to power distribution companies (discoms).
For the first time, the national capital’s peak power demand is likely to touch 9000 MW, surpassing the previous high of 8656 MW recorded in 2024, as per the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC). Notably, Delhi’s power demand had breached the 7000 MW mark for the first time in 2018, peaking at 7016 MW. This expected surge to 9000 MW represents an increase of over 300% compared to the peak demand of 2879 MW in 2002, SLDC stated.
Rising power demand across Delhi
The peak power demand in BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) areas of South and West Delhi, which reached 3809 MW in the summer of 2024, is expected to rise to around 4050 MW in 2025. Meanwhile, in BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL) areas of East and Central Delhi, the demand, which peaked at 1882 MW in 2024, is expected to touch approximately 1900 MW this year, according to SLDC.
Speaking to Patriot, a BSES spokesperson highlighted the initiatives taken by BSES to strengthen its network over the years to meet the growing power demand of the national capital.
Green power initiatives to support summer demand
Detailing the company’s green energy efforts, the spokesperson stated that over 2100 MW of green power will play a crucial role in ensuring reliable electricity supply in Delhi during the summer months. This includes around 888 MW of solar power from SECI, 500 MW of wind power, 40 MW from waste-to-energy projects, and over 160 MW of rooftop solar installed across South, West, East, and Central Delhi.
To further enhance supply, BSES has secured up to 1100 MW through bilateral contracts. In case of any unforeseen shortfall, discoms will procure short-term power from the exchange based on real-time requirements. Additionally, advanced load-forecasting models using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) will improve demand prediction and grid stability.
A BSES spokesperson explained that BSES discoms are fully prepared to ensure reliable power supply to meet the needs of over 50 lakh consumers and two crore residents in South, West, East, and Central Delhi. These arrangements include long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), banking agreements with other states, and the deployment of the latest AI and ML technologies for accurate power demand forecasting. The company has also made power banking arrangements with multiple states, ensuring access to up to 500 MW of additional power during the summer months.
Advanced forecasting and grid management
Explaining the methodology for forecasting power demand, the BSES spokesperson stated that discoms use a combination of advanced statistical models and state-of-the-art weather forecasting solutions, integrating AI and ML with expertise from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Power System Operation Corporation Ltd (POSOCO). These analytics enable the company to build high-accuracy models, leading to significant savings in man-hours.
Highlighting the importance of precision in forecasting, the spokesperson noted that accurate day-ahead, intra-day, and medium-term demand forecasting is vital for optimal and cost-effective planning, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to consumers. BSES has also started actively utilising the Real-Time Market, a new offering on the Power Exchange, which helps in balancing renewable energy power and maintaining grid stability.
Measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply
To ensure reliability during peak summer months, BSES discoms have strengthened the network and undertaken several preventive and predictive maintenance measures. These include thermal scanning, partial discharge measurement, health assessment of power and distribution transformers, and an online load monitoring system for tracking power transformers and 11 kV feeder loads.
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Meanwhile, Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (Tata Power-DDL), which supplies electricity to North Delhi and serves around nine million residents, has also implemented multiple measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
Tata Power-DDL’s preparations for peak summer
Gajanan S Kale, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Tata Power-DDL, stated that the company is committed to ensuring reliable and uninterrupted power supply for its customers. As the peak summer season approaches, demand within the Tata Power-DDL distribution area is expected to reach approximately 2562 MW, and the company is fully prepared to meet this challenge. Measures include strengthening the network infrastructure, implementing advanced technologies, and optimising load management to ensure seamless operations. Proactive steps such as enhanced maintenance, additional manpower deployment, mobile transformers, and Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been put in place to swiftly address any contingencies.
A senior official noted that Tata Power-DDL has also arranged to procure short-term power from the exchange to tackle unforeseen contingencies. The company has deployed advanced statistical and modelling techniques to forecast power demand with greater accuracy.
Battery energy storage and AI-based forecasting
Tata Power-DDL’s Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at Rohini and Rani Bagh will support continuous and reliable power supply during emergencies. These storage systems charge during off-peak hours and discharge power during peak demand periods, helping stabilise the grid and ensuring efficient energy utilisation.
Tata Power-DDL extensively implements advanced technologies, including statistical forecasting models and state-of-the-art weather forecasting solutions using AI and ML. The company has strengthened its network by commissioning new and upgrading existing distribution transformers to meet the rising demand. Preventive and condition-based maintenance of all critical electrical installations is being conducted to enhance reliability.
Tata Power has also adopted various initiatives to reduce power disruptions, including predictive maintenance of 11 kV feeders and distribution transformers, regular tree trimming to prevent electrical hazards, infra-red and ultrasound inspections of grid substation equipment, and vegetation maintenance of sub-transmission overhead lines.
To handle emergencies, Tata Power-DDL has deployed mobile distribution transformers across the network and increased staffing at call centres. Additionally, dedicated 24×7 teams are in place to manage breakdowns and restore supply quickly.
With these extensive preparations, both BSES and Tata Power-DDL aim to ensure that Delhi residents receive a stable and reliable power supply during the peak summer season.
