India, April 22 -- The Government of India has issued a release:
Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri Pralhad Joshi, addressed the Foundation Day of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA) today, highlighting India's remarkable progress in the wind energy sector and reaffirming the Government's commitment to accelerating the country's clean energy transition.
Shri Joshi stated that India has recorded its best-ever year in wind energy capacity addition, with a historic 6.1 GW added during 2025-26. India currently ranks fourth globally in wind energy, with over 56.1 GW installed capacity and an additional 28 GW under implementation.
Emphasising the vast untapped potential of the sector, the Minister highlighted that India's wind energy potential at 150 metres hub height is estimated at nearly 1164 GW. He expressed confidence that with sustained efforts, the country will achieve 100 GW wind capacity by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036, contributing significantly to the net-zero target by 2070.
The Minister underlined that wind energy plays a critical role in stabilising India's energy system, particularly due to its peak generation during evening and night hours, which aligns with high demand periods. He noted that nearly 45% of wind power generation occurs during peak demand hours, making it a vital complement to solar energy.
Highlighting policy interventions, Shri Joshi stated that the Government has introduced a dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations to ensure sustained demand. Measures such as enforcement of Late Payment Surcharge rules, transparent bidding guidelines, and the implementation of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) are strengthening investor confidence and promoting domestic manufacturing.
He further noted that India has developed a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem with an annual capacity exceeding 24 GW and indigenisation levels of 70-80%. The country also has strong supply chain capabilities across blades, towers, gearboxes, and other critical components.
Addressing industry concerns, the Minister informed that the Government is actively examining the release of additional wind tenders while also promoting hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) projects for enhanced grid efficiency. Issues related to Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) penalties, curtailment, and transmission delays are under active consideration, with efforts underway to arrive at balanced and practical solutions.
The Minister also highlighted initiatives such as Green Energy Open Access rules to facilitate direct procurement of renewable power by industries, repowering of old wind turbines, and expansion of transmission infrastructure under the Green Energy Corridor.
He noted that the Government is working to mobilise long-term, low-cost financing through innovative mechanisms such as blended finance and credit enhancement frameworks. The recently launched 500 MW pilot under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) model is expected to provide revenue certainty and improve market stability.
Shri Joshi emphasised that the evolving global landscape presents a strategic opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing and supply partner in the wind energy sector, particularly as countries seek to diversify supply chains.
Congratulating WIPPA for its role as a credible voice of the wind energy industry, the Minister noted that the association has played a key role in shaping policy dialogue, addressing sectoral challenges, and supporting India's renewable energy ambitions.
Concluding his address, the Minister reiterated that achieving the ambitious target of 156 GW over the next decade is well within reach, supported by clear policy direction, strong institutional backing, and industry participation. He called for greater focus on integrated hybrid systems combining wind, solar, and storage to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.
Present at the event was Secretary, Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Shri Santosh Sarangi and others.
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Nihi Sharma
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.