Global Power News - September 2, 2025

India’s Electricity Generation Sees Sharp Rebound NEW DELHI, Sept. 2 - India’s electricity production accelerated by 4 percent in August, marking the fastest monthly increase since March, according to data released today by the national grid operator. Coal-fired generation rose for the first time in five months, accounting for 64.8 percent of output, as industrial demand rebounded following the monsoon season. Renewables also contributed strongly, with solar and wind generation up 23 percent and hydropower rising 9 percent year-on-year. Overall power output reached a record 161 billion kilowatt-hours, driven by a surge in manufacturing activity and easing rainfall impacts on cooling requirements.

French Energy Workers Launch Nationwide Strike PARIS, Sept. 2 - Electricity and gas workers across France began a renewable strike today called by the FNME-CGT union, targeting pension reform and the recent VAT increase on energy subscriptions from 5.5 percent to 20 percent. Some 220 picket lines have been set up at major power plants and distribution centers to pressure employers over wage negotiations and social benefits. While union leaders emphasize they do not intend to cut off supplies to users, planned production slowdowns at strategic sites such as nuclear power plants could impact output. The movement may be extended after a review meeting on September 4 and could converge with broader citizen protests scheduled for September 10.

New Zealand Fast-Tracks Energy Project Consenting WELLINGTON, Sept. 2 - New Zealand’s Parliament passed the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill at its third reading, introducing a 12-month deadline for consenting decisions on specified renewable and thermal generation projects. The fuel-agnostic framework aims to expedite investment in wind, solar, and backup gas-fired peaking plants necessary to stabilize the grid during low renewable output. Industry representatives called the reform a “big win” that balances rapid deployment of renewables with the need for reliable backup capacity and attracts domestic and international investors.