Delhi is set to face a record-breaking power demand this summer, with the peak demand expected to reach 9000 MW for the first time, as per estimates from the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC). This comes after the city recorded its highest-ever demand of 8656 MW in 2024.
The BSES discoms, BSES Rajdhani Power Limited (BRPL) and BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL), are taking proactive steps to ensure uninterrupted power supply for more than 50 lakh consumers and approximately 2 crore residents across South, West, East, and Central Delhi.
Strategic Measures to Meet Growing Demand
To address the rising power demand, BSES has prepared a multi-faceted strategy, including:
- Power Banking Arrangements: BSES has secured power banking agreements with several states to ensure the availability of up to 500 MW during peak summer months.
- Advanced Forecasting with AI & ML: BSES is leveraging advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques in combination with weather forecasting solutions to accurately forecast power demand. This helps in optimal planning and cost-effective power distribution. They are also using Real-Time Market (RTM) on the Power Exchange to balance renewable energy (RE) and maintain grid stability.
- Contribution from Green Energy: A significant portion of Delhi’s power supply will come from renewable energy sources. Over 2100 MW of green power will be generated, including:
- 888 MW from solar power via Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
- 500 MW from wind energy
- 546 MW from hydroelectric power
- 40 MW from waste-to-energy projects
- 160 MW from rooftop solar installations across the city
- Strengthening the Power Network: BSES has undertaken extensive preventive maintenance and is using predictive techniques to identify potential faults before they occur. Measures like thermal scanning, partial discharge measurement, and health assessment of power transformers will help prevent outages during the high-demand months. An online load monitoring system is also in place to track power transformers and 11kV feeder loads.
Demand Forecast and Growth
The peak power demand for BRPL’s jurisdiction (covering South and West Delhi) is expected to reach 4050 MW, while BYPL’s area (covering East and Central Delhi) is expected to reach 1900 MW.
Delhi’s power demand has grown substantially over the last two decades:
- 2002: The highest demand was 2879 MW.
- 2018: The peak demand crossed 7000 MW for the first time.
- 2024: The city reached 8656 MW.
- 2025 (Projection): The demand is set to touch 9000 MW, marking an increase of over 300% since 2002.
BSES’s Preparations and Procurement Plans
To meet the rising demand, BSES has signed long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) and arranged for additional supply through bilateral contracts, with BRPL expected to procure up to 1100 MW. In case of unforeseen contingencies, the company will procure short-term power from the exchange as needed.
The company’s extensive efforts to ensure reliable electricity include continuous improvements to its power infrastructure and efforts to reduce any potential disruptions.