India is facing a growing electricity shortage, with nine states seeking additional power from the Centre to prevent outages. Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Delhi are among the affected regions.
According to Reuters, India’s power shortage reached 560 million units in September 2026, the highest level since August 2023. Reduced rainfall has affected hydropower generation, while coal shortages, plant maintenance and rising industrial demand have added pressure on electricity supplies.
The shortage is particularly concerning at night, when solar power generation drops but electricity demand remains high. State governments are seeking additional supplies from the Centre to avoid power cuts, while inadequate battery storage makes it difficult to use surplus daytime solar energy after sunset.
