PANAJI
The peak power demand across the country is expected to surpass 260 GW this summer, and likewise, Goa’s power consumption has also reached record levels, influenced by persistent high temperatures and humidity.
Goa’s power usage has surged from the usual 670-680 MW to a record peak demand of 820 MW this summer, surpassing last year’s peak of 780 MW, according to the Electricity Department.
Among 7 lakh electricity consumers, both residential and commercial zones have seen maximum usage. “Around 750-800 MW demand is being recorded at every given point of time throughout this summer. The consumption has spiked due to increased use of air conditioners and other electronic appliances,” a senior official told The Goan.
While residential areas have undoubtedly seen a rise in power usage as most people, apart from the working class, preferred to stay indoors due to heat wave-like conditions; commercial areas, especially along the coastal belt, also experienced increased power consumption.
The official revealed that the influx of tourists has contributed to higher power usage, which, in turn, has boosted revenue also as the tariff per unit for commercial use is higher than that for residential areas. However, the power consumption in industrial areas has remained stable throughout the year.
“It's an annual trend,” he said, further explaining, “Commercial and industrial sectors account for 20 per cent of total power consumers, while residential areas make up the remaining 80 per cent. Nevertheless, nearly 80 per cent of the revenue comes from the industrial and commercial category.”
As per a national study, air conditioning can contribute to 30-50 per cent of a household or company’s yearly energy expense.
With the monsoon fast approaching, power consumption is expected to drop by around 100 MW from the current levels. Besides generating power units daily, Goa purchases a major portion from the central generating station as well as private.
Pan-India, the highest supply in a day rose to 221.70 GW in March 2024 as against 208.92 GW in March 2023 and 199.43 GW in March 2022.
