Stocks to buy: From Coal India to JSW Energy, Axis Direct bets on these 5 stocks as India’s power demand heats up The brokerage firm Axis Direct has maintained Buy ratings on five power sector stocks, including Coal India, JSW Energy, and NTPC, citing strong demand, weather-related risks, and infrastructure expansion as key drivers. The analysis highlights the impact of El Niño conditions, which could intensify through fiscal year 2027, and the role of transmission network growth in supporting the sector. Axis Direct also noted that peak power demand in India is projected to rise significantly, with a forecast of around 270 gigawatts this summer, up from the previous all-time high of 250 gigawatts. The report emphasized that rising temperatures and geopolitical tensions are creating a volatile energy environment, which is boosting demand for thermal power generation. With El Niño potentially leading to hotter summers, cooling demand is expected to surge, while weaker monsoon conditions could reduce hydroelectric output. This combination is likely to increase reliance on thermal power producers and coal suppliers. Transmission capacity additions, including 1,895 ckm and 12,545 MVA of new infrastructure in February 2026, are also seen as a positive factor for the sector. Axis Direct’s analysis pointed to structural demand strength in India’s electricity market, with peak power demand reaching 245 gigawatts in January 2026. While this is slightly lower than the 250 gigawatt peak recorded in May 2024, the firm attributed the moderation to seasonal factors rather than a decline in underlying demand. The brokerage also highlighted a policy signal from the Minister of State for Power, which projected a 270 gigawatt peak for this summer, representing an 8% increase over the previous record.#coal_india #jsw_energy #axis_direct #ntpc #skipper
