Securing Tamil Nadu's Power: A Chennai Summit on Coal, Lignite, and Renewables

On May 2, 2025, Union Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt met with Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary N Muruganandam in Chennai to address the State’s energy security, particularly its coal and lignite needs for the upcoming summer and monsoon seasons. The meeting emphasized proactive coordination to ensure stable and affordable power supply.

According to NLC India Ltd (NLCIL), discussions included projected power demand, resource availability, and strategies to overcome supply-side challenges. Key issues included land acquisition delays affecting lignite mining operations, with NLCIL urging expedited clearances. The potential of converting mining overburden into manufactured sand (M-Sand) for sustainable resource use was also discussed.

Further deliberations covered the operationalization of Neyveli airport to enhance regional connectivity and logistics. The formation of a joint venture between Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation and NLC India Renewables (NIRL) was explored to support the State’s clean energy goals.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.