Tamil Nadu has shattered its previous solar energy records, marking a significant achievement in its renewable energy journey. On Tuesday, the state successfully fed a staggering 50.8 million units (Mu) of solar power into the Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation (Tangedco) grid. This milestone represents the highest single-day solar energy absorption the state has ever witnessed.
Record-Breaking Peak Generation
Alongside the total units, the peak solar power generation also reached an unprecedented high. On the same day, the state recorded a peak generation of 7,276 megawatts (MW). This dual achievement comfortably surpasses the previous benchmarks set on August 6 of the previous year, which stood at 49.3 million units and a peak of 6,731 MW.
The surge in solar output comes as a welcome change after a period of subdued generation caused by the northeast monsoon. The return of dry weather and clear skies across most regions of Tamil Nadu has allowed solar plants to operate at near-full capacity. This green energy boost played a crucial role in meeting the state's power demands.
Solar Power Fuels State's Energy Needs
On the record-breaking Tuesday, solar energy contributed significantly to the overall power consumption. It met approximately one-sixth of the state's total electricity demand, which was recorded at 345.68 million units for the day. The overall power demand remained manageable, hovering around 17,000 MW, partly due to pleasant weather conditions in Chennai and several districts keeping consumption in check.
While generation saw a slight dip to 47.4 million units on Wednesday, officials from Tangedco remain optimistic. They anticipate solar production to scale new heights in the coming days, given the forecast of continued dry weather with minimal chances of rain. A senior official stated, "As long as there is no rain forecast, we can anticipate good solar generation. Field officers have been instructed to evacuate all the green power generated."
Tamil Nadu's Growing Solar Portfolio
This record is underpinned by Tamil Nadu's substantial and growing infrastructure for solar energy. The state currently boasts an installed solar capacity of 10,159.61 MW. This formidable capacity places Tamil Nadu as the fourth-highest among all Indian states in terms of solar power installation, trailing behind Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Notably, compared to the previous year, the state has added an impressive 2,000 MW to its solar installed capacity, showcasing its accelerated commitment to renewable energy.
This achievement highlights Tamil Nadu's pivotal role in India's green energy transition, demonstrating how favorable policy and infrastructure investment can lead to tangible, record-setting outcomes in renewable power generation.
