China's electricity grid is buckling under the pressure of a record-breaking heatwave, with power consumption soaring to unprecedented levels this summer. The National Energy Administration reported all-time highs in electricity demand as sweltering temperatures force millions to crank up air conditioning units.
Infrastructure Pushed to the Limit
Authorities revealed that peak daily loads have repeatedly smashed previous records across multiple regions. The eastern manufacturing hub of Zhejiang province saw demand surge 8.1% above last year's levels, while Shanghai recorded its highest-ever electricity usage for June.
Climate Change Fuelling Energy Crisis
Meteorologists attribute the extreme conditions to climate change, noting temperatures 2-5°C above seasonal averages. "What we're seeing isn't just a hot summer - it's a fundamental shift in weather patterns," warned one climate scientist.
Emergency Measures Implemented
To prevent blackouts, officials have:
- Prioritised residential electricity over industrial users
- Activated emergency coal-fired power reserves
- Launched public awareness campaigns about energy conservation
The situation highlights China's delicate balancing act between climate commitments and energy security as extreme weather events become more frequent.
