Wind energy is a renewable and non-polluting source of energy that can be harnessed by using wind turbines to generate electricity. India has a large potential for wind energy, especially in the coastal and hilly regions. According to the National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), the total wind energy potential in India is 302 GW at a 100-meter hub height. Out of this, 127 GW is the offshore wind energy potential along the 7,600 km of coastline.
However, the spatial spread of wind energy in India is limited by several factors, such as:
The availability and quality of wind resources vary across different regions and seasons. The wind speed and direction are influenced by local topography, land use, and atmospheric conditions. The highest wind potential is found in the southern and western states, such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
The cost and feasibility of installing and maintaining wind turbines depend on the accessibility and infrastructure of the sites. Offshore wind farms require higher capital investment, transmission infrastructure, and environmental clearance than onshore ones. Remote and hilly areas may pose challenges for transportation and grid connectivity.
The integration and management of wind power into the electricity grid require adequate planning and coordination among various stakeholders. Wind power is intermittent and variable, which can affect the grid stability and reliability. There is a need for forecasting, scheduling, balancing, and storage mechanisms to ensure smooth power supply and demand.
The policy and regulatory framework for wind energy development in India is evolving and needs to be harmonized across different levels of government. There are issues related to land acquisition, clearances, tariffs, incentives, bidding processes, and inter-state sale of wind power that need to be addressed to create a conducive environment for investors and developers.