Chennai: Several newly built solar and wind power projects in Tamil Nadu remain idle despite being ready for generation, as the power utility has not granted approvals to connect them to substations for months, investors allege.
Private firms have been setting up renewable energy plants across the state with significant investment. The Centre recently mandated the use of domestically manufactured solar cells and panels from June 1, while offering exemptions for projects that had already begun work, prompting many developers to speed up completion.
According to the investors, solar projects totalling 736.50 MW across 226 companies and wind projects totalling 400 MW across four companies are now in a ready-to-commission state. However, they say an order issued last month directed that approvals for substation connectivity should not be given, and the directive has not been withdrawn.
Investors claim connectivity has been withheld since March 16, pushing borrowers into financial stress as loan repayments fall due. They also allege that the suspension of a chief engineer in the non-conventional energy wing has created fear among officials, leading to delays in inspections and clearances.
They have urged the utility to immediately allow grid connectivity, form a committee to resolve procedural hurdles in renewable power, and address equipment issues such as faulty transformers that prevent wind power from being evacuated even when wind conditions are favourable. They also want the state power minister to hold talks with industry stakeholders and association representatives to find solutions.
