Record electricity consumption in January, up nearly 18 percent
Early 2026 brought a sharp rise in electricity demand, including peak loads, driven by low temperatures and heavier use of electric heating systems, Premier Energy Distribution reports. In January, total consumption increased by about 17.6 percent compared with the same period in 2025 and by nearly 15 percent compared with January 2024.
In January 2026, total electricity consumption reached 365,246 MWh, setting record peak values in recent years.
According to Premier Energy Distribution, the daily peak consumption reached 13,217 MWh, while the hourly peak hit 680 MWh.
“These figures reflect intense network demand, especially in the evening hours when household consumption rose sharply due to the use of electric heating during cold periods,” the company noted.
The trend continued into February. In the first 24 days, total consumption reached 276,291 MWh, surpassing the same period last year (257,826 MWh) and far exceeding February 2024 (227,561 MWh). Daily and hourly peaks remained high, at 12,884 MWh and 646 MWh respectively.
Data indicate that network demand remains strong, and if the current pace continues, February 2026 could record a total consumption higher than in previous years.
“The rise in total consumption, along with higher peak loads, places extra stress on the distribution infrastructure. Under these conditions, balancing demand with the network’s technical capacity is crucial to maintaining energy system stability,” the company emphasized.
Consumers are urged to use electricity responsibly, especially during peak hours from 18:00 to 22:00. They are advised to avoid running high-consumption appliances simultaneously, use energy-efficient equipment, set optimal heating temperatures, and minimize unnecessary energy use to support network stability and efficient resource use.
