Tamil Nadu has shattered its previous solar energy records, achieving a significant milestone in its renewable energy journey this week. The state's power grid absorbed an unprecedented amount of solar power, signaling a bright future for clean energy generation.
Historic Numbers Set on Tuesday
On Tuesday, the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Ltd (Tangedco) grid successfully absorbed a remarkable 50.8 million units (Mu) of solar energy. This achievement eclipsed the previous daily high of 49.3 Mu, which was recorded on August 6 of the previous year. Simultaneously, the state witnessed its peak solar power generation reach an all-time high of 7,276 megawatts (MW), far surpassing the earlier record of 6,731 MW.
Weather Plays a Key Role in Solar Surge
The record-breaking performance comes after a period of reduced output caused by the northeast monsoon. A shift to dry weather with clear skies across most regions of Tamil Nadu allowed solar plants to operate at optimal capacity. On the day of the record, solar power contributed substantially to the state's energy needs, meeting approximately one-sixth of the total power consumption, which was recorded at 345.68 Mu. Pleasant weather conditions in Chennai and various districts helped keep the overall peak power demand around 17,000 MW.
While generation saw a slight dip to 47.4 Mu on Wednesday, officials from Tangedco remain highly optimistic. They anticipate solar power generation will continue to scale new heights in the coming days as the dry spell is expected to persist with minimal chances of rain.
State's Solar Capacity and Future Outlook
An official from the power distribution corporation stated, "As long as there is no rain forecast, we can anticipate good solar generation and field officers have been instructed to evacuate all the green power generated." This proactive approach ensures maximum utilization of the available renewable resource.
Tamil Nadu has firmly established itself as a solar energy leader in India. With an impressive installed solar capacity of 10,159.61 MW, the state ranks fourth in the nation, trailing only Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Notably, compared to the figures from 2024, Tamil Nadu has added a substantial 2,000 MW to its solar installed capacity, demonstrating a strong commitment to expanding its green energy infrastructure.
This series of records underscores Tamil Nadu's pivotal role in India's renewable energy transition, leveraging its geographical advantage and infrastructure to harness the power of the sun more effectively than ever before.
