Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) has reported a strong beginning to the financial year 2026–27, with total electricity trading volumes reaching 12,341 million units (MU) in April 2026. This marks a notable growth of 16.6% compared to April last year, mainly driven by rising electricity demand across the country.
India’s total energy consumption also saw an increase of around 4% year-on-year, touching 154 billion units (BU). This rise in demand was largely influenced by changing weather conditions. The country experienced a shift from unseasonal rainfall to intense summer heat, which pushed electricity usage higher. As a result, peak power demand reached a record level of 256 GW during the month.
Among the different market segments, the Real-Time Market (RTM) showed the highest growth. It recorded a sharp increase of 30.2%, with traded volumes reaching 5,069 MU. On April 30, 2026, the RTM achieved its highest-ever single-day trading volume of 250 MU. This segment has become important for power distribution companies and industrial users, as it helps them quickly manage their electricity needs. During the month, there were also instances when surplus solar power during the daytime caused prices in the RTM to drop to almost zero, offering cost benefits to buyers.
The Day-Ahead Market (DAM) also performed steadily, with volumes growing by 8.7% to 4,624 MU. Despite strong demand, the average market-clearing price remained at ₹5.26 per unit. However, during the early rainy days in April, prices dropped below ₹3.5 per unit, allowing buyers to take advantage of lower rates.
In the renewable energy segment, the Green Market recorded a growth of 7.5%, with volumes reaching 841 MU. The average price for Green Day-Ahead power declined by nearly 7% to ₹3.79 per unit, making renewable power more affordable.
On the other hand, the Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) market showed a decline in activity. Around 1.18 lakh certificates were traded during the month, but overall volumes fell by more than 59% compared to last year. This drop was mainly due to fewer sell bids in the market.
The April performance reflects a changing energy market in India, where both conventional and renewable energy trading are adapting to meet growing demand. With increasing participation and more trading sessions planned, IEX continues to support efficient and transparent power trading in the country.
Discover more from SolarQuarter
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
