Tamil Nadu Is Fourth in India for Renewable Power in January with Strong Solar Output

Chennai: Tamil Nadu produced 3,119 million units (MU) of electricity from renewable sources in January, placing it fourth among Indian states, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. Gujarat led the country with 5,925 MU, Rajasthan followed with 5,715 MU and Karnataka was third with 4,824 MU.

In the solar energy category, Tamil Nadu narrowly outdid Karnataka by generating 1,683 MU compared to Karnataka’s 1,678 MU, showing strong performance in sunshine-based power. However, the state’s hydroelectric output was significantly lower, with only 284 MU from large hydro plants, while Karnataka produced 1,128 MU, highlighting a disparity in water-driven generation capacity.

Officials from Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited said the state has concentrated its efforts on enlarging both solar and wind power capacity, though seasonal factors mean wind output is usually lower in January. They noted that states with greater reliance on solar, such as Rajasthan and Gujarat, tend to maintain steadier generation during winter months, contributing to their higher overall renewable totals.

Nearly all suitable land for large renewable projects in Tamil Nadu has already been used, making further site identification a challenge, authorities said. On the hydro front, Tamil Nadu’s dependence on water inflows from neighboring states limits its generation, unlike Karnataka’s stronger hydro base.

To improve energy reliability, officials also disclosed plans to install Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) units near power substations to support grid stability and future renewable integration.