Energy shortage warning as soaring temperatures across Asia drive up demand

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleA severe heatwave across large parts of Asia is significantly increasing energy demand, particularly for air conditioning, while the US-Israeli war against Iran simultaneously tightens energy supplies, creating a potential crisis. India has experienced record electricity demand, reaching 271 gigawatts for four straight days, a level projected as the full-year ceiling for 2026-27, with temperatures hitting 47C in some states and three months of summer still remaining. The conflict in the Middle East has impacted global energy markets, with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz affecting liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies, forcing countries like India to ration gas and rely more heavily on coal. The surge in demand is exacerbated by a broader electrification trend in India and a significant increase in air conditioner ownership, with 10 to 15 million new units added annually and projections of 130 to 150 million more over the next decade. Experts warn that without faster progress in increasing renewable energy storage and improving AC efficiency, the region risks blackouts and a deeper reliance on coal, further worsening the climate crisis. In fullEarly heatwaves and Iran war create perfect storm for energy shortagesThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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