Chennai, Apr 18:
Tamil Nadu recorded its highest-ever power demand of 20,974 MW on April 16, with daily energy consumption also touching a record 460 million units (MU), driven by intense summer heat across the State.
The new peak surpasses the previous high of 20,830 MW recorded on May 2, 2024. Similarly, the latest consumption figure exceeds the earlier record of 454.32 MU set on April 30, 2024.
The spike in demand comes amid soaring temperatures, with several regions recording 2–3°C above normal levels. Karur’s Paramathi touched a high of 41.2°C, while districts such as Erode and Madurai hovered around 40°C, indicating widespread heat stress.
Power demand has remained consistently high, crossing the 20,000 MW mark on seven occasions between April 8 and 16. Solar generation contributed significantly during the day, with output ranging between 5,401 MW and 8,011 MW. However, elevated evening temperatures have kept overall demand high, limiting the easing effect of solar power.
The increase is notable compared to April 2025, when peak demand crossed 20,000 MW only once, touching 20,148 MW, with an average of 18,355 MW.
Energy consumption has also surged:.April 2025 peak: 438 MU (average 396 MU) April 2026: Crossed 400 MU on 14 days, often exceeding 420 MU
With hot and humid conditions expected to continue, officials anticipate sustained pressure on the grid, largely due to increased use of cooling appliances and prolonged high temperatures.