Chennai, India - Tamil Nadu's 1,076 km coastline is estimated to have an energy potential of 80,192.4 terawatt-hours (TWh) per annum from ocean sources, according to an integrated ocean energy atlas developed by the National Centre for Ocean Information Services (Incois).
The offshore solar and wind energy potential is notable at 77,901.92 TWh, with solar contributing 98.5%. Additionally, marine hydrological energy estimates indicate a potential of 2,290.48 TWh, derived from ocean thermal gradient, salinity gradient, ocean waves, tidal energy, and ocean currents. Rough waves alone are estimated to contribute 2,150 TWh.
The Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) along the 7,500 km coastline has an integrated ocean energy potential of 920,000 TWh per annum. Consumption in Tamil Nadu is projected to rise from 125,000 million units in 2023 to 181,000 million units by 2030.
Incois utilized satellite data and numerical models to assess this potential. The atlas, launched in September, aims to guide policy and investment in the energy sector. Offshore renewable energy is viewed as a critical component in India's energy transition and blue economy development.
The Indian government plans to develop 37 GW of offshore wind farms with an investment of ₹4.5 lakh crore. The first tender for a 500 MW offshore wind energy project off the Tamil Nadu coast is expected by March 2025.
Furthermore, discussions are underway to secure government funding for an offshore Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) plant, which will be anchored in deep waters, with design and location details to be finalized soon. Experts indicate that while initial capital costs will be high, larger plants could lead to reduced costs over the next two decades.