Introduction
Wind energy potential in India is estimated to be around 750 GW (695 GW at 120 metre hub height for onshore wind and 71GW of offshore wind in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, as per NIWE). The wind power capacity in India has been growing steadily over the years. However, there is still a possibility to exploit the untapped wind energy generation potential (mainly with offshore wind and repowering of existing onshore wind projects). The underlying potential can be harnessed to meet India’s policy goals, addressing energy security challenges, and achieving low carbon growth, in a cost-effective manner.
Solar energy generation in India has been accelerating and the installed capacity stood at 67.82 GW as of May 2023. According to the National Institute of solar energy, India has the potential to generate upto 750 GW of solar energy. The Indian government has implemented several policies and initiatives to encourage the development and use of solar energy in the country.
Key content
National level
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is the nodal ministry of the Government of India responsible for research and development, international cooperation and coordination in renewable energy sources.
Website https://mnre.gov.in/
Email policy-mnre@nic.in
The key policies and schemes from the MNRE in the Wind-Solar sector include:
National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy – The policy promotes large grid-connected wind-solar PV hybrid system for optimal and efficient utilization of transmission infrastructure, land, and better grid stability.
Additionally, promotes configuration of wind turbine generators and solar PV systems to operate at the same point of grid connection. The development of wind solar hybrid projects is incentivized and promoted through different schemes and programmes.
Website https://mnre.gov.in/img/documents/uploads/2775b59919174bb7aeb00bb1d5cd269c.pdf