Punjab fully prepared to meet record summer power demand, ensure uninterrupted supply: Sanjeev Arora

Chandigarh: Facing a sharp and sudden surge in electricity demand driven by an intense heatwave, the Bhagwant Mann Government has moved swiftly to ensure uninterrupted power supply across Punjab, with Power Minister Sanjeev Arora asserting that Punjab remains firmly in control even as demand skyrocketed from 7,900 MW to over 12,000 MW within just ten days.

Backed by a ₹6,000+ crore infrastructure overhaul under Mission Roshan Punjab and a nearly 70% reduction in unplanned outages, the state’s power utility Punjab State Power Corporation (PSPCL) has managed to maintain grid stability at a time when several parts of the country are grappling with shortages, positioning Punjab among the better-prepared states to handle peak summer demand.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Punjab Power Minister Sanjeev Arora asserted that the Bhagwant Mann Government has made comprehensive preparations to tackle the sharp surge in electricity demand amid the ongoing heatwave, ensuring uninterrupted power supply across the state under the leadership of Bhagwant Singh Mann. “PSPCL is fully prepared to meet the unexpected rise in power demand during the current summer season and ensure smooth and uninterrupted power supply across the state,” he said.

The Power Minister highlighted the recent surge in demand, stating, “Due to the ongoing heatwave, Punjab has witnessed a sharp jump in electricity demand over the last few days. The State’s maximum power demand surged from around 7,900 MW on 15th April to over 12,000 MW by 25th April, registering nearly 12% increase over last year.”. Emphasising Punjab’s preparedness, he added, “Despite this sudden rise, PSPCL has successfully managed the demand and maintained grid stability through timely planning, robust infrastructure, and advance power arrangements.”

Minister Sanjeev Arora further pointed out the national scenario, saying, “At the national level also, power demand has touched record highs, with India recording an all-time peak demand of 252 GW on 24th April, while available supply stood at around 239 GW, creating a 13 GW deficit across the country. Several states are facing shortages and outages, but Punjab has remained comparatively better positioned due to proactive planning.”

Referring to the directions of the Chief Minister, he said, “CM Sardar Bhagwant Singh Mann has specifically instructed the Power Minister and the entire PSPCL team to ensure that the public does not face inconvenience due to any power outages, and all departments are working in mission mode to fulfill these directions.”

Detailing the steps taken, Sanjeev Arora said, “Negotiations for 1,500 to 2,000 MW additional power through banking arrangements with other states are in advanced stages.”