Chennai, April 2: As temperatures rise in Tamil Nadu, the demand for electricity in both urban and rural areas is surging. The significant increase in solar energy production is aiding the state in managing this growing load, alleviating pressure on the grid and ensuring a stable supply during this critical period.
Data from the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO) shows that solar energy generation reached 54.8 million units (MU) on March 24 and climbed to 55.6 MU on March 27, setting new records.
These figures surpass the previous peak of 53.9 MU recorded in August 2025, indicating a strong trend in renewable energy contributions even before the peak summer demand begins.
During this period, solar energy accounted for approximately 13 percent of total electricity consumption, highlighting its increasing role in the state’s energy mix.
Alongside the rise in electricity production, consumption has also steadily increased due to high temperatures, greater use of cooling appliances, and a gradual shift towards electric cooking solutions in some areas.
Electricity consumption in the state has already reached 423.887 MU, marking the highest level so far this season. With temperatures expected to rise further, continuous demand growth is anticipated, potentially surpassing previous records in the coming weeks.
The consistent generation of 50 MU of solar energy daily has helped maintain uninterrupted supply for consumers across all sectors. This additional capacity has played a crucial role in providing stability, especially during peak daytime demand.
According to data from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Tamil Nadu produced 1,745.24 MU of solar energy in February this year, an increase compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to advanced infrastructure and favorable climatic conditions, enabling higher production.
The installed capacity for solar energy in Tamil Nadu has seen rapid growth over the past three years, rising from 5,303 megawatts in March 2022 to 12,352 megawatts now. This significant expansion in renewable energy infrastructure is expected to strengthen the state’s ability to meet rising demand while also achieving clean energy goals.
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