Context
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has revealed significant insights into India's wind energy potential, highlighting top states for wind power and the country's commitment to sustainability.
What is the Scenario
- India's wind power potential stands at 695.5 GW (120m) and 1,164 GW (150m) above ground level, ranking 4th globally in installed capacity.
- Wind power capacity at 120m above ground level:
- Gujarat: 142.56 GW
- Rajasthan: 127.75 GW
- Karnataka: 124.15 GW
- Maharashtra: 98.21 GW
- Andhra Pradesh: 74.90 GW
- Wind power capacity at 150m above ground level:
- Rajasthan: 284.25 GW
- Gujarat: 180.79 GW
- Maharashtra: 173.86 GW
- Karnataka: 169.25 GW
- Andhra Pradesh: 123.33 GW
Initiatives for Wind Energy Advancement by the Government:
- Repowering Policy 2016: Encourages upgrading of wind projects, offering extra interest rate benefits for new projects funded by IREDA.
- FRP Disposal Guidelines: CPCB sets eco-friendly protocols for disposing of FRP materials from wind turbine blades.
- National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy 2018: Promotes large grid-linked wind-solar PV hybrid systems, optimizing resource use, transmission, and land.
- National Offshore Wind Energy Policy: Aims to develop offshore wind power within India's EEZ along its 7600 km coastline.