Electricity consumption is setting new records due to the heatwave.

Inside the control room of an EVN power plant. Photo: Viet Ha

According to the National Power System Dispatch Center, the intense heatwave that has occurred over the past few days, mainly in the North and Central regions, has led to a surge in electricity consumption; the system's peak power even far exceeded the highest peak power of 2017.

Specifically, on May 18, 2018, the system's peak capacity reached 32,863 MW, while the highest peak capacity in 2017 was 30,857 MW on August 9, 2017.

Thus far, the peak power capacity of the entire national power system has increased to 1,788 MW compared to the peak of 2017 - an amount of 1,788 MW almost equal to the capacity of the entire Hoa Binh hydroelectric power plant.

During the recent hot weather, electricity consumption on May 17, 2018, reached a record high of 683 million kWh, an increase of 41 million kWh compared to the highest consumption day of 2017 (642 million kWh - August 9, 2017). This increase of 41 million kWh is equivalent to Hanoi's consumption on a day with normal weather conditions.

According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the peak of the 2018 hot season will continue through May, June, and July.

The highest temperatures in 2018 in the northern provinces could reach 38-39 degrees Celsius, with some areas like Son La and Hoa Binh possibly experiencing heat waves as high as 40 degrees Celsius.

In central Vietnam, the heat could be more intense, reaching a maximum of 39-40 degrees Celsius, and in some places even around 41-42 degrees Celsius.

This has led to a sudden surge in electricity demand, mainly due to the significantly increased use of air conditioners and cooling devices, resulting in the risk of full load and overload of the local power grid in some areas, compromising the safety and stability of the power system's operation.

With the hot weather continuing throughout the summer, EVN continues to advise agencies, offices, and the public to thoroughly use electricity economically and efficiently, especially during prolonged periods of hot weather.

Especially when using air conditioners, it's important to set them to the optimal mode, ideally at 26 degrees Celsius or higher. This will ensure electricity savings for customers, minimize the risk of localized grid overload, and prevent sudden spikes in electricity bills.