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Tamil Nadu Plans First Floating Solar Projects Across 7 Reservoirs

Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) plans to set up the state’s first floating solar photovoltaic projects across seven reservoirs, including Mettur and Vaigai dams. The pilot phase aims to generate 100 MW, with feasibility studies assessing costs, battery storage, and environmental impact. Floating solar projects require about 20% higher investment than ground-mounted plants, costing ₹5-6 crore per MW. Despite higher upfront costs, TNGECL believes the initiative could save the state ₹10,000-15,000 crore over five years by reducing coal dependency.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu’s First Floating Solar Projects on 7 Reservoirs

  • TNGECL identifies 7 reservoirs for pilot floating solar projects
  • Initial phase to generate 100 MW
  • Feasibility study includes battery storage and environmental factors
  • Project costs estimated at ₹5-6 crore per MW
2 min read

TNGECL plans Tamil Nadu's first floating solar projects across seven reservoirs

TNGECL plans Tamil Nadu's first floating solar projects across seven reservoirs, including Mettur and Vaigai dams, to generate 100 MW initially.

"Tamil Nadu has a significant untapped floating solar potential estimated at around 3,000 MW across 57 reservoirs. - TNGECL sources"

Chennai, April 28

In a move to tap the vast renewable energy potential of waterbodies, Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited has initiated plans to set up floating solar photovoltaic projects across multiple reservoirs in the state.

The initiative comes amid growing concerns over land constraints for conventional solar parks and the need to accelerate clean energy adoption.

As part of the proposal, TNGECL has identified seven locations for the pilot phase, including major reservoirs such as Mettur Dam, Bhavanisagar Dam, Vaigai Dam, Red Hills Reservoir and Sathanur Dam, along with a TNGECL-owned site at Avalanche.

These sites have been chosen based on their size, water availability and suitability for floating infrastructure.

Officials said the corporation has already reached out to the Water Resources Department (WRD) to obtain permission for using these reservoirs.

In parallel, a private firm has been roped in to undertake feasibility studies, focussing on technical viability and environmental considerations.

The project is expected to be formally announced once the Model Code of Conduct in force due to elections is withdrawn.

According to TNGECL sources, Tamil Nadu has a significant untapped floating solar potential estimated at around 3,000 MW across 57 reservoirs. The proposed pilot project is expected to generate around 100 MW in its initial phase, which will serve as a benchmark for future expansion depending on its success.

The feasibility study will assess critical factors such as project costs, integration of battery energy storage systems (BESS), reservoir depth, and overall site suitability.

Implementation is expected to commence after securing regulatory approvals. Officials noted that floating solar projects typically involve around 20 per cent higher investment compared to conventional ground-mounted solar plants.

The cost is estimated at ₹5 crore to ₹6 crore per MW, with each MW requiring roughly 3.5 acres of water surface due to additional floating infrastructure.

Despite the higher upfront investment, TNGECL believes FPV projects offer substantial long-term benefits. By reducing dependence on coal-based power generation, the state could potentially save between ₹10,000 crore and ₹15,000 crore over the next five years.

With land availability emerging as a key constraint for large-scale solar expansion, floating solar technology is increasingly being viewed as a practical and sustainable alternative. TNGECL is expected to scale up the initiative based on the performance and outcomes of the pilot phase.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, Tamil Nadu is moving beyond just ground-mounted solar. We have so many reservoirs sitting idle—why not use them? The ₹10,000-15,000 crore savings on coal is huge, but let’s also check the environmental impact on aquatic life.
A
Arjun K
Good to see this, but why wait for election code to end? These projects take years anyway. Also 20% higher cost—₹5-6 crore per MW—needs careful budgeting. But if we can save water evaporation and generate power, it’s a win-win. Let’s hope they involve local fishermen in planning.
S
Sneha F
As someone from a village near Vaigai Dam, I welcome this. Water levels have been dropping, but floating panels could actually reduce evaporation and keep the water cooler. Just hope the WRD doesn’t delay permissions—they’re notorious for slow clearances!
R
Rahul R
Impressive 3,000 MW potential across 57 reservoirs! Tamil Nadu is already a leader in wind and solar, and floating tech could be the next big thing. But the article says 100 MW pilot—why so small? With land issues everywhere, we should scale up faster. Also, battery storage integration is key for night-time supply.
K
Kavya N
Nice move! But I have a small concern: Red Hills is a major drinking water source for Chennai. Will the floating panels affect water quality? Need transparency on environmental studies before we jump in. Otherwise, it’s a brilliant idea to use water bodies without grabbing farmlands.

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