Tamil Nadu has unveiled a series of ambitious initiatives in its 2024-25 budget, presented on Friday, March 14, aimed at boosting renewable energy and strengthening climate resilience. With a focus on green energy expansion, marine conservation, and pollution control, the state seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Key allocations include significant investments in pumped storage projects, battery energy storage systems, biodiversity conservation, and eco-friendly transport solutions.
As part of its vision to become a trillion-dollar economy by 2030, Tamil Nadu has set a target of generating an additional 100 billion units of renewable energy. To achieve this, the government plans to develop pumped storage projects with a combined capacity of 2,900 MW in Vellimalai and Aliyar through a public-private partnership, with an investment of Rs 11,721 crore. Furthering its push for renewable energy, the government will establish a 4,000 MWh battery energy storage system in 2025-26. This will ensure a continuous supply of clean energy beyond daylight hours, reduce power costs, and support the decarbonization process. Additionally, an integrated renewable energy policy will be introduced to streamline various initiatives in the sector. The energy department has been allocated Rs 21,178 crore in the budget.
Acknowledging the state's 1,076 km-long coastline and diverse marine ecosystems, Tamil Nadu has proposed the creation of a marine resource foundation with an initial funding of Rs 50 crore. This initiative will focus on conserving mangrove forests and promoting sustainable fishing practices to protect marine biodiversity. To improve air quality, 700 diesel buses operated by state transport corporations will be converted to CNG buses for Rs 70 crore, funded by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board. The government also aims to secure Blue Flag certification for six key beaches across the state, investing Rs 24 crore to enhance water quality, environmental education, and beach management.
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A raptors research foundation will be established with Rs 1 crore from the endangered species conservation fund to protect birds of prey such as eagles, hawks, and vultures, which are vital indicators of ecological balance.
In a significant step towards wildlife protection, Tamil Nadu will designate Dhanushkodi as a greater flamingo sanctuary to safeguard migratory birds and their wetland habitats. Additionally, a 1,000-hectare biodiversity park will be developed in Melchengam, Tiruvannamalai district, to restore forest ecosystems and promote eco-tourism, with an initial funding of Rs 10 crore. The government also plans to upgrade 500 km of forest roads for Rs 250 crore to improve forest management and enhance accessibility for tribal communities.
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