The article discusses how El Niño conditions are causing a decline in hydropower generation in India, forcing the country to rely more on coal-fired power.S&P Global analysis shows a 6.3 aGW drop in hydropower generation in June compared to the previous year, while coal generation rose by 20.7 aGW.Warmer weather and reduced rainfall are affecting hydropower, which is crucial for grid stability due to its flexibility.

The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air warns of an 18 terawatt-hour generation gap, likely to be filled by coal, leading to additional carbon emissions.Similar trends are observed in Japan, South Korea, and other Asian countries, with India and Vietnam being the most affected.Meteorological forecasts predict El Niño conditions during the southwest monsoon, exacerbating electricity demand and renewable energy challenges.