Tamil Nadu continues to shine as one of India’s renewable energy front-runners, and Virudhunagar district has taken the spotlight as the state’s most promising zone for solar power generation. The district’s vast expanse of arid land and high solar irradiance make it ideal for large-scale, ground-mounted solar projects that can contribute substantially to the state’s clean energy goals.
Tamil Nadu’s Solar Potential: An Overview
According to recent estimates, Tamil Nadu holds a total solar power potential of 204,765 MWp, equivalent to nearly 205 GW, assuming that around 10% of the state’s wasteland is utilized for solar energy production. This positions Tamil Nadu as a key contributor to India’s renewable energy roadmap, especially with its supportive policy framework and infrastructure readiness.
The state’s global horizontal irradiance (GHI) ranges from 3.11 to 5.80 kWh/m²/day, providing consistent and favorable sunlight conditions for solar energy generation across most regions.
Key Solar Data — Tamil Nadu
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Solar Potential (Tamil Nadu) | 204,765 MWp (~205 GW) |
| Feasible Land Area Identified | 1,357.71 km² (for ground-mounted solar projects) |
| Land Requirement (per 50 MW SPV plant) | Approximately 0.29 km² |
| GHI Range (Solar Irradiance) | 3.11 – 5.80 kWh/m²/day |
| Installed Solar Capacity (as of latest data) | ~15,000 MW |
| National Ranking in Solar Potential | 7th in India |
| Top Solar Potential District | Virudhunagar (24 GW) |
District-Wise Solar Potential in Tamil Nadu
| District | Estimated Solar Potential (GW) |
|---|---|
| Virudhunagar | 24 GW |
| Trichy | 13 GW |
| Tirunelveli | 12 GW |
| Tuticorin | 12 GW |
| Others (average) | Below 10 GW each |
National Context and Outlook
Tamil Nadu ranks seventh in India’s solar potential, following Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Karnataka. However, its current installed capacity of around 15 GW makes it one of the top-performing states in operational solar infrastructure.
With increasing investment interest and expanding industrial demand, Tamil Nadu’s solar landscape—led by Virudhunagar’s 24 GW potential—is expected to play a vital role in achieving India’s 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030.
The state’s proactive policies, favorable geography, and robust grid infrastructure position it as a model for other regions aiming to balance industrial growth with sustainability.
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