Tamil Nadu Wind Power Stays Steady in First Half of Fiscal Year

Wind energy generation in Tamil Nadu stayed almost flat during the first six months of the current financial year compared to last year. Data from the Indian Wind Power Association shows wind evacuation in the State reached 12,256 million units between April and September. This total makes up about 16.16 percent of the 76,472.44 million units of electricity consumed across the State during the same period. For comparison, wind power generation was slightly higher at 12,360 million units during the first half of last year, making up 17.87 percent of that period's total consumption.

Industry Views and Costs

K. Ilango, vice-chairman of the Association, explained that solar energy installations are growing much faster than wind mills, leading to a rise in solar power evacuation. He noted this shift may explain why wind generation dipped slightly this time during peak windy months. Even so, generators producing wind power for personal use report no trouble with evacuation this year. N. Pradeep, secretary of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Coimbatore, stated that winds should blow until December. He expects total generation to finish less than 10 percent below the State's annual average, noting that peak-season winds were slightly weaker this year in certain areas.

Equipment and Growth

Mr. Ilango also pointed out that modern wind turbines range from 2.1 MW to five MW in capacity, with costs reaching nearly ₹9 crore for a single MW. This high price tag makes solar setups more popular for quick expansion, though wind generation now spreads across a longer period in the State to help boost its overall scope.

Context

Tamil Nadu relies heavily on a mix of renewable sources like wind and solar to meet its large industrial and domestic power needs. Wind power has traditionally played a major role in the State's energy mix during the windy half of the year, though high equipment costs continue to shape how fast new capacity is added.