Gujarat’s peak electricity demand reached a record 29,822 MW on October 16, placing pressure on the state’s energy infrastructure and prompting the government to accelerate short-term supply arrangements and long-term capacity expansion. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviewed the demand-supply position at a high-level meeting and directed the Energy Department to ensure uninterrupted power for farmers, industries and households. Peak demand was 36.6 per cent higher than the 21,822 MW recorded in October last year. Daily consumption rose to 574 mn units from 457 mn units, an increase of nearly 27 per cent. Demand during September and October has also increased by around 4,000 MW, or 12 per cent, compared with previous years. Weak monsoon conditions, the impact of El Niño and elevated temperatures have raised cooling demand. The government’s effort to provide irrigation power for standing crops has pushed agricultural demand to a daily peak of 12,000 MW, while industrial consumption has strengthened ahead of Diwali. Evening supply remains particularly challenging as solar generation falls to zero after sunset and wind output fluctuates. Coal- and gas-based plants are being used to meet the evening requirement, while the State Load Dispatch Centre and distribution companies are working to maintain grid stability. Lower hydropower generation, caused by deficient rainfall in Gujarat and neighbouring states, and declining wind generation have further tightened availability. The Union Coal Ministry has assured Gujarat of 10 to 11 railway rakes of coal daily until November, rising to 13 to 14 rakes thereafter. The state has secured 329 MW from NTPC’s Farakka plant for November, 551 MW from Assam’s central power quota on a long-term basis and an extension of its 716 MW supply arrangement from NTPC’s Barh-I and Dadri-I plants until March 2028. It has also sought 500 MW from the Centre’s unallocated quota. Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity is being expanded to ease evening shortages. Against 192 MW currently operational, agreements cover 2,742 MW and 5,517 MWh. Long-term plans include additional thermal and hydropower capacity from 2028-29, along with projects under the SHAKTI scheme, a proposed nuclear project and an 800 MW Ukai thermal unit.