Wind energy falls under the wider umbrella of renewable sources of energy, which also include solar power, hydropower, geothermal energy, and bioenergy. The government has launched various initiatives to harness these sources, aiming towards sustainable development and a cleaner, greener environment for our future generations. One key player in this realm is wind energy.
The Role of the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)
The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and MEC Intelligence (MEC+), a consulting firm specializing in renewable energy, have reported an anticipated peak in India’s new wind power project installations by 2024, with a likely decline following that year. Post-2024, wind-solar hybrid projects are predicted to take the forefront.
Exploring Wind Projects in India
Onshore and offshore wind farms are two primary types of wind energy sources. Onshore wind farms comprise large installations of wind turbines on land, while offshore windfarms are situated on bodies of water. Currently, India holds 13.4 GW of prospective projects in wind energy, which promise to boost installations until 2024. Additionally, India plans to add 3.2 GW in 2022, 4.1 GW in 2023, peaking to 4.6 GW in 2024, and then declining to 4 GW and 3.5 GW in subsequent years.
Challenges Faced by Wind Energy Projects in India
Despite the benefits, wind energy projects in India have faced numerous obstacles. One primary issue is the concentration of wind projects within a select few regions such as Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which has resulted in logistical bottlenecks and increased costs. Compounding this issue is the lumpy nature of the wind installation market, coupled with delays in project execution, a state worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic and associated supply chain disruptions.
India’s Energy Potential
India’s potential for wind energy is estimated at around 60 GW, with chances of it going up substantially. Replacement of older, low capacity wind power stations with higher capacity turbines could significantly boost this number. Moreover, India’s expansive coastline, spanning over 7,516.6 km, offers great scope for harnessing offshore wind energy, especially on the western side.
Wind Energy: The Basics
The process of wind energy conversion involves transforming the kinetic energy created by air motion into electrical power. This is accomplished using wind turbines, which convert the wind’s kinetic energy into rotational energy to generate electricity. The power that can be harnessed from wind is proportional to the dimensions of the rotor and the cube of the wind speed.
A Brief History of Wind Energy
Historically, wind energy dates back to more than a century ago, soon after the invention of the electric generator in the 1830s. However, modern wind power is generally believed to have originated in Denmark.
Governing Policies and Initiatives
The Indian government has implemented several policies to promote renewable energy, including the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy and the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy. These policies aim at optimal and efficient utilization of wind and solar resources, transmission infrastructure, and land while also developing offshore wind energy along India’s coastline.
The Way Forward
For sustainable growth in wind-based power generation, policymakers need to streamline procedures for permit granting, land allocation, and grid connection projects. Greater public-private cooperation and a robust international regulatory framework are also crucial for addressing competition for commodities and critical minerals. Finally, investment in grids must be tripled from current levels through 2030 to meet anticipated demand.