New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Josh said on Wednesday that India has recorded its best-ever annual increase in wind energy capacity with a historic 6.1 GW addition during 2025–26.

India currently ranks fourth globally in wind energy, with more than 56.1 GW installed capacity and an additional 28 GW under implementation, the Union Minister said in his address at the foundation day event of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA).

Emphasising the vast untapped potential of the sector, Union Minister Joshi highlighted that India’s wind energy potential at 150 metres hub height is estimated at nearly 1,164 GW.

He expressed confidence that with sustained efforts, the country will achieve 100 GW wind capacity by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036, contributing significantly to the net-zero target by 2070.

The Union Minister underlined that wind energy plays a critical role in stabilising India’s energy system, particularly due to its peak generation during evening and night hours, which aligns with high demand periods.

He noted that nearly 45 per cent of wind power generation occurs during peak demand hours, making it a vital complement to solar energy.

Highlighting policy interventions, Union Minister Joshi said that the Central government has introduced a dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations to ensure sustained demand.

“Measures such as enforcement of Late Payment Surcharge rules, transparent bidding guidelines, and the implementation of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) are strengthening investor confidence and promoting domestic manufacturing.”

He also noted that India has developed a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem with an annual capacity exceeding 24 GW and indigenisation levels of 70–80 per cent.

The country also has strong supply chain capabilities across blades, towers, gearboxes, and other critical components.

Addressing industry concerns, the Union Minister told that the Central government is actively examining the release of additional wind tenders while also promoting hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) projects for enhanced grid efficiency.

Issues related to Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) penalties, curtailment, and transmission delays are under active consideration, with efforts underway to arrive at balanced and practical solutions.

He also highlighted initiatives such as Green Energy Open Access rules to facilitate direct procurement of renewable power by industries, repowering of old wind turbines, and expansion of transmission infrastructure under the Green Energy Corridor.

He noted that the Union government is working to mobilise long-term, low-cost financing through innovative mechanisms such as blended finance and credit enhancement frameworks.

The recently launched 500 MW pilot under the Contracts for Difference model is expected to provide revenue certainty and improve market stability.

Union Minister Joshi also emphasised that the evolving global landscape presents a strategic opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing and supply partner in the wind energy sector, particularly as countries seek to diversify supply chains.

He also said that achieving the ambitious target of 156 GW over the next decade is well within reach, supported by clear policy direction, strong institutional backing, and industry participation.

He called for greater focus on integrated hybrid systems combining wind, solar, and storage to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.

–IANS

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