Power demand tops 250 GW as weak monsoon keeps heat on

India's peak power demand is soaring above 250 GW due to lingering heatwaves, outpacing a sluggish monsoon. Authorities are preparing contingency plans, including maximizing coal power and potentially directing gas-based plants to operate at full capacity. With forecasts of below-normal rains, electricity consumption for cooling and irrigation is expected to remain high, especially in August and September, as the nation braces for potential supply challenges.