Renewable energy is set to bolster the state’s power distribution infrastructure. A new policy coming soon.
The Tamil Nadu state government has recently announced a plan to invest 700 crore INR (approximately 93.33 million USD) to boost renewable energy capacity. This initiative includes improving power distribution and transmission infrastructure.
The government has disclosed that the fund includes allocating ₹200 crore for installing approximately 2,000 transformers of different capacities to ensure reliable power distribution. Additionally, ₹211 crore will be used to establish a 210 kV substation in Tiruppur district and a 110 kV substation in Tiruchi district.
Another ₹217 crore will enhance the load capacity of 19 power transformers in Chennai and Kancheepuram Districts, while ₹75 crore will fund the establishment of three new 33/11 kV substations and the upgrade of load capacities at six existing 33/11 kV substations.
At the state assembly, Thangam Thennarasu, Minister of Electricity, Finance, and Human Resources Management, stated that the State plans to increase energy capacity by approximately 2,000 MW from solar, wind, and other renewable sources through private sector partnerships, aiming to meet rising energy demands and achieve green energy targets.
Thennarasu also revealed that the government plans to introduce a fresh policy to boost renewable energy generation through hybrid systems and a new initiative to encourage hydropower and pumped storage projects.
Recently during the recent Global Investors Meet, the state administration entered MoUs for solar, wind, and hybrid projects totaling approximately 18,429 MW. Additionally, deals were signed for pumped storage plants amounting to 1,600 MW.
In March 2024, the State Energy Department’s transmission infrastructure comprised 1,091 substations and 38,772 kilometres of transmission lines across different voltage classifications.
Tamil Nadu currently claims to hold the third position in India for renewable energy installed capacity, totalling 19,628.40 MW.
