Wind energy

WIND POWER POTENTIAL

• Viable wind power potential across globe is 72TW, which is four times more than the current world's total energy demand. 
• India's wind power potential at 120 meters height is estimated to be 695 GW. Current, installed wind power in India is 38 GW. 
• Wind power capacity in India can be further enhanced with increase in hub heights, with more turbines going up to 150 m. 

STRENGTHS OF WIND ENERGY

1. Wind power constitutes a significant share of India's renewable energy capacity. (46%)
2. India's wind energy sector is mature. India has the world's fourth largest wind capacity. 
3. Large degree of indigenization of wind power industry. All wind turbines are made in India and more than 80% of components are made domestically.
4. Water smart electricity: Wind energy is the least water consuming source of electricity. Water requirement is negligible after commissioning as against other forms of electricity generation.
5. Technological advancement: Wind Turbine technology has evolved with focus on greater energy capture and improved capacity utilization. Turbines with larger rotor diameter and higher hub heights are being developed. 

SHORTCOMINGS

1. Land focused wind power policy: India wind power capacity is entirely land based. There is a need to develop offshore wind power capacities.
2. The earliest wind power projects were established at sites with highest wind power capacity. Thus, India's best wind power sites are not being adequately harnessed for wind power generation. 

WAY FORWARD

• Exploring manufacturing and deployment of wind turbines with higher hub heights of 150m and larger turbine size.
• Harnessing offshore wind power potential. 
• Supporting and developing domestic manufacturing capacity for efficient and state of art wind turbines.
• Repopulating older and legacy wind power sites with modern turbines at 120 m and above heights and larger turbine capacity.