A recent report jointly published by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and MEC Intelligence (MEC+) has highlighted India’s potential to become a significant player in the global wind energy supply chain. Titled “From local wind power to global export hub: India Wind Energy Market Outlook 2023-2027,” the report underscores India’s opportunities in the export market while addressing domestic challenges in scaling up wind energy deployment.
The report projects the addition of approximately 22 GW of wind energy capacity in India over the next five years, maintaining the current pace of growth. Under a more accelerated scenario, with increased demand from both central and state markets as well as commercial and industrial consumers, the capacity addition could surge to over 26 GW within the same period.
India’s national target aims for 140 GW of cumulative installed wind energy capacity by 2030. While challenges might impact reaching this goal, the report suggests that with proactive policy and industrial support, India could potentially achieve more than 68 GW of total wind energy installation by 2027.
Ben Backwell, CEO of GWEC, praised the Indian government’s commitment to expanding wind energy in its energy mix. He highlighted the country’s potential to utilize its domestic market and existing manufacturing capabilities to establish itself as a key player in the global wind supply chain. Backwell emphasized that this strategic move could position India as a renewable energy hub in Asia and beyond, playing a pivotal role in global climate action.
India’s prominent role in the G20 Presidency and the upcoming COP28 conference in Dubai further solidifies the country’s position in driving renewable energy expansion toward a net-zero energy system. Wind energy deployment will be a crucial component of this transition.
Sumant Sinha, Chairperson of GWEC India, noted India’s favorable policy environment, advanced manufacturing supply chain, and emerging opportunities like commercial and industrial wind projects and offshore wind. He stated that India is uniquely positioned to contribute significantly to global targets for 2030.
In 2022, India issued tenders for standalone wind and hybrid projects, indicating a resurgence in the wind power sector. The report outlines opportunities for growth in India’s domestic market, aligning with target trajectories, expanding manufacturing capabilities, and promoting the offshore wind ecosystem.
The report concludes with the importance of concerted efforts to translate auctioned wind projects into active ones to meet ambitious capacity targets. With India’s strategic position and commitment to renewables, the nation could indeed shape the global wind energy landscape in the coming decade.