El Niño Expected to Affect Wind and Hydropower Generation in India, According to Study

The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) has forecasted that diminished energy output from wind and hydropower sources, along with an increasing demand for air conditioning, may result in a significant generation gap of nearly 18 terawatt-hours (TWh) over the 12-month period leading up to June 2027.

This anticipated shortfall underscores the need for increased investment in alternative energy sources and the modernization of existing infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency. As climate change continues to drive extreme weather patterns, the reliability of wind and hydroelectric power may be further challenged, impacting overall energy supply.

Moreover, the growing demand for cooling solutions in response to rising global temperatures is likely to exacerbate the situation. Stakeholders, including governments and energy providers, may need to develop strategic plans to address potential energy deficits, such as exploring other renewable options, investing in energy storage technologies, and implementing conservation measures to mitigate the impacts of this anticipated generation gap.