Context:
India has recorded a historic wind energy addition of 6.05 GW in FY 2025–26, reflecting strong progress towards its renewable energy targets.
Key Highlights:
- Capacity Addition and Growth
- Record addition of 6.05 GW (≈46% increase over previous year).
- Total installed wind capacity exceeds 56 GW.
- Leading States
- Major contributors:
- Gujarat
- Karnataka
- Maharashtra
- Renewable Energy Integration
- Growth driven by wind-solar hybrid projects.
- Supported by green energy open access policies.
- Long-Term Targets
- Wind energy expected to contribute 140 GW by 2030.
- Part of India’s 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity goal.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Wind Energy:
- Renewable energy generated from kinetic energy of wind
- India’s Global Position:
- 4th largest installed wind capacity
- 3rd largest renewable energy producer
- Wind Potential:
- ~695.5 GW at 120m height
- ~1,164 GW at 150m height
- Key Policies:
- National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy (2018)
- Offshore Wind Policy (2015)
- Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO)
- Viability Gap Funding (VGF)
Relevant Mains Points:
- Energy Transition and Climate Goals:
- Supports India’s NDC commitments under Paris Agreement
- Reduces reliance on fossil fuels
- Economic and Industrial Benefits:
- Promotes green jobs and manufacturing
- Reduces energy import dependency
- Challenges in Wind Energy:
- Intermittency and variability affecting grid stability
- Inadequate transmission infrastructure
- Land acquisition issues
- Low tariffs reducing investor interest
- Policy and Infrastructure Issues:
- Need for grid modernization and storage solutions
- Streamlining approval and land acquisition processes
- Strategic Importance:
- Diversifies energy mix
- Enhances energy security
- Way Forward:
- Invest in energy storage and grid integration
- Strengthen transmission infrastructure
- Promote offshore wind development
- Ensure viable tariffs and investor confidence
- Enhance policy stability and coordination
UPSC Relevance:
• GS 3: Environment, Energy Security
• GS 3: Economy