Overview
Vaigai Dam is a 13.5 MW hydroelectric power plant in Tamil Nadu, India. It generates renewable energy from the Vaigai River, supporting regional grid stability.
Vaigai Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in Tamil Nadu, India, with an installed capacity of 13.5 MW. As a run-of-river or dam-based facility, it harnesses the flow of the Vaigai River to generate clean electricity, contributing to the state's renewable energy portfolio. The plant operates under India's regulatory framework for hydropower, which includes environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and compliance with the Dam Safety Act. Small-scale hydro plants like Vaigai Dam typically use Francis or Kaplan turbines, depending on head and flow conditions. Vaigai Dam plays a role in local energy supply and water management, as the reservoir also supports irrigation and drinking water needs. Its operation helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels in the region, aligning with India's goals for increasing renewable energy capacity.
Environmental context
As a hydroelectric facility, Vaigai Dam has a low carbon footprint but may affect local aquatic ecosystems and river flow regimes. The reservoir can alter sediment transport and fish migration patterns. Proximity to populated areas requires careful management of downstream water releases to prevent flooding and ensure water availability for agriculture.
Frequently asked questions
Vaigai Dam is located in Tamil Nadu, India, at coordinates 10.0537° N, 77.5905° E.
Vaigai Dam has an installed capacity of 13.5 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility.
Small hydro plants like Vaigai Dam commonly use Francis or Kaplan turbines, depending on the water head and flow characteristics.
Hydroelectric plants in India must obtain environmental clearance from the MoEFCC and comply with the Dam Safety Act, along with state-level water use permits.
Vaigai Dam generates renewable electricity with low carbon emissions, but its reservoir can affect river ecology and requires careful water management for downstream communities.