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Q.Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread.

UPSC Mains 2022•Geography

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Introduction

Wind energy is a critical pillar of India's transition toward a green economy. The nation set an ambitious target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2022, with 60 GW designated to come from wind power.

Body

Wind Energy Potential in India

  • The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) estimates India's gross wind power potential to be 302 GW at 100 meters and 695.50 GW at 120 meters above ground level.
  • Offshore Potential: With a coastline of approximately 7,700 km, India has substantial opportunities to harness offshore wind energy.
  • Spatial Concentration: Western and southern states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh) possess the highest potential due to stable and strong wind flows.

Reasons for Limited Spatial Spread and Challenges

  • Infrastructure Constraints: Concentration of projects in specific areas (like Gujarat) puts immense pressure on land and leads to grid congestion during power evacuation.
  • Investor Reluctance: Despite available land in states like Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, investors prefer Gujarat and Tamil Nadu due to higher Plant Load Factors (PLF) and better economic viability.
  • Policy and Tariff Issues: Project concentration is driven by high PLF states, with 90% of projects planned in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to secure competitive tariffs.
  • Land Availability and Grid Integration: Acquiring land remains difficult, and grid planning issues persist.
  • Social and Environmental Concerns: Local protests over land displacement and potential impacts of wind turbines on local wildlife (especially birds) pose challenges.
  • Financial Risks: High installation costs for offshore wind, delayed payments from distribution companies (discoms), and competition from cheaper solar energy limit widespread adoption.

Steps Taken

  • National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy (2018): Promotes large-scale integrated wind-solar systems.
  • National Offshore Wind Energy Policy (2015): Framework to develop offshore wind along the Indian coastline.

Way Forward

  • Introduce incentive-disincentive mechanisms to nudge investors toward other states.
  • Conduct rigorous Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) to minimize biodiversity impacts.
  • Promote green R&D to lower costs and boost domestic manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Conclusion

A multi-stakeholder approach aligned with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and India's net-zero targets for 2070 is essential to unlock the full potential of wind energy across the country.

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