India’s wind energy sector expanded rapidly in early 2025. The country added about 3.5 GW of wind capacity, an 82% increase from the previous year. This raised the total installed capacity to 51.3 GW. Despite this growth, India’s wind power potential remains largely untapped. The National Institute of Wind Energy estimates a gross potential of 1163.9 GW at 150 metres above ground. The government is pushing states to resolve land and transmission issues to accelerate renewable energy development. However, concerns about the impact of wind farms on bird populations have surfaced.
Wind Power Expansion in India
India’s wind sector is growing to meet rising energy demands and climate targets. The government and experts stress faster project approvals and infrastructure upgrades. Offshore wind energy is also gaining focus. India aims to install 30 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030. Recent bids for 4 GW offshore projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu mark this shift. Offshore wind offers vast potential due to India’s long coastline and exclusive economic zones. Yet, offshore projects require careful environmental assessments.
Impact on Bird Populations
Studies show wind turbines cause bird mortality. Research in the Thar Desert, home to 900 turbines and 272 bird species, found high bird death rates. The Wildlife Institute of India estimated 4,464 bird deaths per 1,000 sq. km annually near turbines. Raptors, which are vulnerable due to their flight patterns and low reproduction, are most affected. Bird collisions with turbine blades and power lines contribute to these deaths. Earlier studies in Kutch and Davangere showed lower mortality rates but confirm the trend.
Mitigation Measures for Bird Safety
Experts recommend site selection as the best mitigation strategy. Birdlife International’s Avian Sensitivity Tool for Energy Planning (AVISTEP) helps identify high-risk areas for birds. It categorises regions in India by avian sensitivity levels. Ground-level studies are essential before wind farm construction. Other measures include painting turbine blades for visibility and shutting turbines during peak bird activity. However, onshore wind projects in India currently lack mandatory environmental impact assessments.
Environmental Concerns for Offshore Wind
Offshore wind farms pose risks to marine life and ecosystems. Noise pollution, water turbidity, and habitat disturbance are key concerns. The National Offshore Wind Energy Policy mandates environmental impact assessments for offshore projects. A recent EIA for a Gujarat offshore wind farm noted the presence of dolphins, sharks, and reptiles. It predicted limited operational noise impact but suggested construction noise could affect sensitive species. Experts call for longer and more detailed studies, especially considering the region’s importance on migratory bird flyways.
Renewable Energy and Biodiversity Balance
India faces the challenge of balancing renewable energy growth with biodiversity conservation. Wind energy is vital for reducing carbon emissions but must be developed sustainably. Integrating environmental data in planning and enforcing impact assessments can reduce harm to wildlife. The future of wind energy in India depends on addressing these ecological concerns alongside technical and economic factors.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the challenges and opportunities in expanding renewable energy in India with respect to environmental sustainability.
- Explain the role of environmental impact assessments in infrastructure development and their effectiveness in protecting biodiversity in India.
- What are migratory bird flyways? How do they influence planning and policy for energy projects like wind farms in India?
- Comment on the importance of offshore wind energy in India’s energy mix and discuss the potential ecological risks associated with its development.
