Electricity demand dichotomy in Rajasthan and Maharashtra: an economic comparative analysis

There is a significant regional variation in India's consumption patterns of electricity despite a steady rise in electrical demand. Utilizing hourly, daily, and annual data, this study analyzes electricity demand trends in Rajasthan and Maharashtra. These predictions represent a confluence of historical data analysis and advanced machine learning techniques, offering insights into future electricity demand that can inform policy-making, infrastructure development, and energy planning in the context of growing environmental and economic challenges. Despite Maharashtra's larger industrial and residential base, Rajasthan's moderate growth contrasts with its high, fluctuating demand. Detailed investigation reveals increasing annual consumption in both states, with seasonal peaks likely linked to cooling load. Moreover, the findings highlight the need for energy policies and infrastructure that are aligned with the socioeconomic composition of each state. Linkages with tourism are also explored. This comparative analysis provides valuable insight into how electricity infrastructure should be planned for future sustainable development.