Tamil Nadu is now a leader in renewable energy, with one of the largest regional installation of wind farms. The state has excellent solar energy potential. It is also blessed with abundant biomass resources.
Being one of the most industrialised states in the country, and known for its excellence in technology, research and academia, the state has the potential to become a global leader in renewable energy.
As of now, the total installed renewable energy capacity stands at 7,572 MW. The Vision 2023 of Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa envisages solar and clean energy as sunrise sectors which will be actively encouraged. A solar energy policy would soon be unveiled which would facilitate generation of 3,000 MW by 2015-16.
The total installed capacity of windmills in Tamil Nadu is 6,696 MW. The maximum generation during the current summer reached above 3,000 MW helping the power-starved state.
The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited (TIDCO) will establish Solar Power Parks in the State to generate 1,000 MW of power in the next five years. These would be implemented in a phased manner both through government and private firms.
These projects are part of the initiatives to generate 5,000 MW of power in the next 11 years.