Worsening climate change main culprit behind India's extreme heat: UN climate chief

UN climate chief Simon Stiell blamed worsening climate change—fueled by coal, oil, and gas consumption—for India’s current extreme heatwave. He warned that the crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those without cooling and outdoor workers, while also straining the economy. Stiell’s remarks followed the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast that severe heatwave conditions would persist in central and northwest India for the next two to three days. India’s power grid faced unprecedented strain, with peak demand reaching 257.3 GW on May 18, 260.4 GW on May 19, 265 GW on May 20, and a record 270.8 GW on May 21. Stiell noted that solar and renewable energy sources have helped meet daytime demand spikes, praising India’s efforts to expand solar power capacity. He emphasized the need for clean energy and energy-efficiency measures to provide cooling for at-risk groups and ensure stable electricity for homes, businesses, and critical services. The heatwave exacerbates existing challenges, including soaring fossil fuel costs and global price volatility linked to Middle East conflicts. Stiell highlighted the dual threat to lives and livelihoods, stressing that climate adaptation measures must be prioritized globally. His comments underscored the urgency of transitioning to sustainable energy to mitigate future heat-related crises. The extreme conditions have also drawn attention to India’s reliance on renewable energy, particularly solar, as a key tool for managing peak demand. However, the strain on the power grid remains a critical concern, with authorities working to balance supply and demand amid rising temperatures. The situation reflects broader climate trends, where rising global temperatures intensify heatwaves, posing risks to public health and infrastructure.