Overview
TANGEDCO operates hydroelectric power stations across the Western Ghats and river systems of Tamil Nadu with a total installed hydro capacity of approximately 2,307.90 MW. Hydro power provides clean, renewable energy and is crucial for meeting peak demand and grid stability.
Kundah Hydroelectric Stations
The Kundah Hydroelectric Scheme in the Nilgiris district is a cascading system of six power houses, originally built with Canadian aid between 1957 and 1964. It remains one of the most significant hydro projects in South India.
| Station | Capacity (MW) |
|---|---|
| Kundah Power House I | 60 |
| Kundah Power House II | 60 |
| Kundah Power House III | 120 |
| Kundah Power House IV | 100 |
| Kundah Power House V | 120 |
| Kundah Power House VI | 95 |
| Total Kundah | ~555 |
Kadamparai Pumped Storage
The Kadamparai Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station, located in Coimbatore district, was commissioned in 1986 with a capacity of 4 × 100 MW (400 MW). It operates by pumping water to the upper reservoir during off-peak hours and releasing it for generation during peak demand periods.
Kodayar Hydroelectric Station
The Kodayar station is located in Kanyakumari district and has an installed capacity of approximately 100 MW. It utilises the waters of the Kodayar river system.
Periyar Hydroelectric Station
Located in the Periyar river basin, this station has an installed capacity of approximately 140 MW. It includes the barrage-type power houses on the Cauvery between Mettur and Bhavani, commissioned during 1987-89.
Other Hydro Stations
| Station | Location | Approximate Capacity (MW) |
|---|---|---|
| Sholayar | Valparai, Coimbatore | 75 |
| Moyar | Nilgiris | 35 |
| Suruliyar | Theni | 35 |
| Papanasam | Tirunelveli | 32 |
| Pykara | Nilgiris | 70 |
| Other Mini/Micro Hydro | Various | Various |
Total Hydro Capacity
| Category | Capacity (MW) |
|---|---|
| Kundah System (6 stations) | ~555 |
| Kadamparai Pumped Storage | 400 |
| Kodayar | 100 |
| Periyar System | 140 |
| Sholayar, Moyar, Suruliyar, Papanasam, Pykara & Others | ~1,112.90 |
| Total Hydro | 2,307.90 |