Describe the status and potential of wind energy in India. (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 3, Q.5)
Wind energy is one of India’s fastest-growing renewable energy sectors. Because of its long coastline, high wind speeds in certain regions, and favourable government policies, India has significant potential for wind power.
Here are some critical points about India’s wind energy status and potential:
- Current capacity: As of September 2021, India’s total installed wind power capacity is approximately 40 GW, accounting for about 10% of total installed power capacity. The state of Tamil Nadu in the south has the most wind power capacity, followed by Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
- Government incentives: The Indian government has implemented a number of policies and incentives to promote the growth of the wind energy sector. A feed-in tariff system, tax breaks, and other financial support mechanisms are among them.
- According to the National Institute of Wind Energy, India has a wind energy potential of around 302 GW. Offshore wind energy has significant potential, particularly along the country’s long coastline.
- Significant new investments are being made in India’s wind energy sector, with several large corporations and international players entering the market. Furthermore, the government has set a target of 60 GW of wind power capacity by 2022.
Challenges:
- A number of issues must be addressed in order to realise the potential of wind energy in India fully. These include the availability of suitable land, transmission infrastructure, and the requirement for more effective policies and regulations to support the sector’s growth.
