As of 2022, which among of the following is the leading tidal energy generation site of India?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Gulf of Kutch.
The Gulf of Kutch, located on the west coast of India in Gujarat, is the leading tidal energy generation site of the country. This region has favorable tidal conditions with a tidal range of 6 to 8 meters, making it ideal for tidal power generation. The Gujarat Power Corporation Limited (GPCL) planned a 50 MW tidal power plant in the Gulf of Kutch, making it the first major tidal power project in India. Although the project faced delays, it remains the most significant site in terms of potential and planning.

Information Booster:

• Tidal Energy: It is generated by harnessing the kinetic and potential energy of tidal movements.
• Key Features of Gulf of Kutch:
  • Tidal range: 6-8 meters, among the highest in India.
  • Potential capacity: Estimated at 300 MW.
  • Project status: Proposed 50 MW plant by GPCL.
• Other Potential Sites in India:
  • Gulf of Khambhat (Gujarat): Second-largest potential site with a tidal range of 8-11 meters.
  • Sundarbans (West Bengal): Tidal energy projects have been proposed, but the potential is lower than that of Gujarat.
  • Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu): Known for its marine biodiversity, but not a significant site for tidal energy generation due to lower tidal range.

Additional Information:

• Sunderbans: A mangrove region in West Bengal with low tidal range, making it less viable for large-scale tidal energy.
• Seashore of Maharashtra: While the Konkan coast has some tidal activity, it lacks large-scale tidal energy potential.
• Gulf of Mannar: Located between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, it is primarily a marine biosphere reserve and not used for tidal energy.