CHENNAI: With the Northeast monsoon taking a break over Tamil Nadu following the passage of Cyclone Arnab, solar power generation in the state soared to a new all-time high of 8,818MW on Friday. This is the first time that Tamil Nadu has recorded peak solar power generation at this level in October, marking a new milestone for the state’s renewable energy sector.According to Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL), the peak generation of 8,818MW was achieved from an installed solar capacity of 12,946MW. It surpassed the previous record of 8,779MW recorded on Sept 29. The state also generated 63.97 million units (MU) of solar power on Friday.The increase in solar generation comes after a spell of widespread rainfall across Tamil Nadu due to the Northeast monsoon, which had affected solar power output. With rainfall activity easing following Cyclone Arnab, clearer skies and improved sunshine helped solar generation recover and cross its previous peak.Meanwhile, the state’s overall electricity consumption crossed the 400MU mark again after remaining below that level for a few days due to heavy rainfall across the state. The improvement in weather conditions and the return of normal economic and commercial activity have contributed to the recovery in power demand.
