HCMC – HCMC’s electricity consumption hit record levels in mid-May as prolonged hot weather drove a sharp rise in power demand.
According to HCMC Power Corporation (EVNHCMC), total electricity consumption reached 197.68 million kWh on May 14, the highest level ever recorded in the city.
Consumption had already climbed to 195.09 million kWh on May 12 and 196.19 million kWh on May 13, the Vietnam News Agency reported.
The May 14 figure was 10.6% higher than the previous record of 178.81 million kWh set on August 5, 2025.
At the same time, the city’s peak power load (Pmax) reached 9,471 MW at 3:30 p.m. on May 14, about 6% higher than last year’s peak of 8,936 MW.
The sharp increase in electricity demand was mainly attributed to intense heat waves that have persisted over recent days. Actual temperatures ranged from 36 to 37 degrees Celsius, while perceived outdoor temperatures at times reached 40 to 42 degrees Celsius.
The sweltering weather caused cooling devices in households, offices and factories to operate at high intensity, pushing up electricity consumption. In addition, energy audit programs at some businesses have yet to deliver the expected efficiency gains.
Amid climate change and rapid urbanization, EVNHCMC said it had proactively prepared multiple response scenarios to ensure safe and stable electricity supply during the dry season.
The utility has inspected transformers and transmission lines that have been operating for many years or are frequently overloaded, while completing maintenance and repairs ahead of the peak heat period.
