India's wind energy sector is at a critical juncture, with industry leaders emphasizing the need for consistent policy support to establish the country as a global leader in renewable energy production. On Thursday, JP Chalasani, CEO of Suzlon Group, highlighted that India is in a transformative phase for wind energy. He noted that with consistent policies supporting domestic manufacturing and innovation—such as enhancing RLMM requirements—India has the potential to emerge as a global hub for renewable energy production.
India’s installed wind energy capacity currently exceeds 48 gigawatts (GW), and industry experts project the potential to add at least 8 GW annually. Amit Kansal, CEO and Managing Director of Senvion Wind Technology, observed that the wind energy sector has experienced considerable growth, with hybrid wind-solar projects reshaping the industry. He remarked that the government's goal of achieving 140 GW of wind power by 2030, alongside annual investments surpassing $10 billion in renewable energy, is essential to meeting the country’s renewable energy targets and fostering sustainable development.
Nevertheless, industry leaders pointed out that land availability remains a significant challenge. Chalasani stressed that although India is prepared to scale up its wind energy capacity, it is vital to address obstacles like land acquisition. Parag Sharma, President of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA), emphasized the importance of decisive and consistent policy support, along with timely power purchase agreements (PPAs), to attract investment and drive smart innovations. He added that strategic collaborations, cost-reflective tariffs, and supportive market mechanisms would accelerate capacity growth, ensuring that wind energy plays a key role in India’s renewable future.
These statements were made during a press conference held in anticipation of Windergy India 2024, a major international trade fair and conference scheduled to take place in Chennai later this month. The event will host over 300 exhibitors from around the world, focusing on advancing wind energy as part of India’s ambitious renewable energy goals.
