Virudhunagar Shines Bright: Tamil Nadu’s Emerging Solar Power Capital with 24 GW Potential – EQ
In Short : Virudhunagar district has emerged as Tamil Nadu’s top region for solar power potential, with an estimated capacity of around 24 GW for ground-mounted projects, according to the National Institute of Solar Energy. Following Virudhunagar are Trichy (13 GW), Tirunelveli, and Tuticorin (12 GW each), highlighting Tamil Nadu’s vast renewable energy opportunities and growing solar development scope.
In Detail : Virudhunagar district in Tamil Nadu has gained recognition as the state’s leading region for solar power potential, according to a report by the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE). The study highlights that the district possesses an estimated 24 gigawatts (GW) of capacity for ground-mounted solar projects, making it a key area for renewable energy expansion.
The findings underscore Virudhunagar’s ideal climatic and geographical conditions for large-scale solar installations. With abundant sunshine throughout the year and vast stretches of available land, the region stands out as a natural hub for solar power development. Experts believe that harnessing this potential could significantly boost Tamil Nadu’s renewable energy portfolio.
Following Virudhunagar, other districts such as Trichy, Tirunelveli, and Tuticorin also exhibit strong solar potential. Trichy holds an estimated 13 GW capacity, while Tirunelveli and Tuticorin each have around 12 GW. Together, these regions represent a significant portion of the state’s total solar energy potential, paving the way for decentralized solar growth.
The NISE report further identifies Tamil Nadu as one of India’s most solar-rich states, with the capacity to generate up to 205 GW if 10% of its wasteland is utilized. Around 1,357.71 square kilometers of feasible land has been marked as suitable for solar deployment, showing the vast opportunities for developers and investors.
Officials from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) have emphasized that optimizing land use and solar infrastructure in these districts can accelerate Tamil Nadu’s clean energy transition. The government is actively encouraging private and public sector collaboration to realize this vision through policy incentives and supportive frameworks.
Virudhunagar’s emergence as the solar leader aligns with India’s broader goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable capacity by 2030. As states like Tamil Nadu strengthen their renewable infrastructure, they play a critical role in meeting national and global sustainability commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Experts note that solar energy adoption in Tamil Nadu not only reduces dependence on fossil fuels but also promotes economic development and job creation. Solar parks, component manufacturing, and maintenance services are expected to thrive in districts with high solar potential, driving inclusive growth in the southern region.
Investors are increasingly eyeing Tamil Nadu’s solar opportunities, attracted by its strong policy environment and high solar irradiance levels. The state’s commitment to developing renewable corridors and expanding grid connectivity adds to the sector’s momentum, ensuring smoother integration of solar power into the energy mix.
With Virudhunagar leading the way, Tamil Nadu is set to become a national model for solar energy excellence. The district’s natural resources, combined with strategic planning and investment, could transform it into a powerhouse for clean energy generation, contributing significantly to India’s sustainable and energy-secure future.
