Tamil Nadu Electricity Board to replace old wind turbines with hybrid wind-solar plants

In a significant move towards modernising its renewable energy infrastructure, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) has decided to decommission old wind turbines across the state and replace them with hybrid wind-solar power plants, according to a TNEB official.

The initiative, to be implemented through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, aims to boost energy efficiency and harness the complementary nature of solar and wind power.

The wind turbines slated for removal, installed between 1986 and 1993, have seen a sharp decline in efficiency due to aging technology and wear. With a total installed capacity of 17 MW spread across 110 wind farms in locations like Kanyakumari (Mupandal), Tuticorin (Mullakadu, Gayatharu), Coimbatore (Sultanpet), Tiruppur (Kedanur) and Madurai (Puliyankulam), these turbines are no longer viable for sustained energy production.

To address this, TNEB plans to establish a 22 MW wind farm and an 18 MW solar power plant at the same sites. The hybrid model leverages the strengths of both energy sources: Solar power that is generated during the day and wind power that is available during the off-season or night, complementing solar energy.

This approach ensures a more consistent and reliable energy supply while maximising land use. Additionally, the existing electrical infrastructure will be utilised, eliminating the need for new power lines and reducing costs.

Under the PPP model, TNEB will lease the land to a private company, which will be responsible for constructing, operating and maintaining the hybrid power plant for 25 years. The Electricity Board will purchase electricity from the company at a predetermined rate, with contracts awarded to firms offering the most competitive tariffs.

The TNEB board of directors has already approved the project and government clearance is awaited. Once approved, tenders will be invited to select a private partner for the joint venture.

Key benefits of the hybrid model are:
• Enhanced efficiency: Combining solar and wind power ensures a more stable energy output
• Cost savings: Utilising existing infrastructure reduces capital expenditure
• Sustainability: Replacing outdated turbines with modern technology aligns with Tamil Nadu’s renewable energy goals.

This initiative marks a significant step in Tamil Nadu’s transition to cleaner and more efficient energy systems.