The drive of renewable energy in Tamilnadu: Status, barriers and future prospect

• Published in: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews Vol. 73; pp. 115 - 124
• Main Authors: Jeslin Drusila Nesamalar, J., Venkatesh, P., Charles Raja, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2017
• Subjects: Bio-derived energy; Cogeneration; Renewable energy; Small-hydro; Solar; Tamilnadu; Wind; Wind; Renewable energy; Solar; Cogeneration; Bio-derived energy; Tamilnadu; Small-hydro
• ISSN: 1364-0321; 1879-0690
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2017.01.123

This article provides a comprehensive review on Tamilnadu's achievement in extracting renewable energy. It discusses the initiatives and policies framed to exploit the renewable natural resources. It also analyzes the various barriers in exploiting renewable energy and the future prospects of Tamilnadu. The core findings are: Tamilnadu, the southernmost state of India is immensely blessed with renewable energy sources mainly wind, solar, hydro and bio-mass. As a result of proper planning and immense investment, Tamilnadu has the highest installed capacity of grid connected renewable power in India and has a share of 35% of India's installed capacity of wind energy. Presently, the capacity addition is not up to the mark. Meanwhile, Tamilnadu leads the country in polluting the environment by emitting greener house gas. Also, there is an alarm in the depletion of conventional energy resources of Tamilnadu. It should not be satisfied with new promotional policies or projects but also, the progress of renewable energy utilization and installation must be monitored. To ensure continuous growth in renewable sector, more public awareness and Research and Development sector should be encouraged in Tamilnadu. [Display omitted] •Tamilnadu has 32% of India's installed renewable capacity.•Tamilnadu has 682.8GW of untapped grid connected renewable potential yet.•Tamilnadu tops the country by having 7597.65MW of wind energy.•Presently, wind energy is not properly evacuated due to unplanned capacity addition in a short span.•Tamilnadu's power generation with respect to conventional and renewable is analyzed for a day and it is noted that certain renewable plants are under-utilized.