India logs record 6.1 GW wind capacity addition in FY26, targets 100 GW by 2030
New Delhi: India has recorded its highest-ever annual addition in wind energy capacity, installing 6.1 gigawatts (GW) during 2025–26, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi said on Wednesday.
Speaking at the foundation day event of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA), the minister noted that India currently ranks fourth globally in wind energy, with a total installed capacity exceeding 56.1 GW. He added that an additional 28 GW of projects are at various stages of implementation.
Joshi reaffirmed the government’s target of scaling up wind power capacity to 100 GW by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036, aligning with India’s broader clean energy transition and its net-zero emissions goal for 2070.
Highlighting the sector’s vast potential, he said India’s wind energy capacity at a hub height of 150 metres is estimated at around 1,164 GW. He said that wind power plays a crucial role in ensuring grid stability, particularly as nearly 45 per cent of generation occurs during peak demand hours in the evening and night, complementing solar energy.
Underscoring policy support, the minister said the government has introduced a dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to ensure consistent demand.
Additional measures such as enforcement of Late Payment Surcharge rules, transparent bidding processes, and the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) are aimed at strengthening investor confidence and encouraging domestic manufacturing.
India has also developed a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem for wind energy, with an annual production capacity of over 24 GW and indigenisation levels of 70–80 per cent. This is supported by a strong supply chain covering key components such as blades, towers, and gearboxes.
Addressing industry concerns, Joshi said the government is considering issuing more wind energy tenders and promoting hybrid as well as round-the-clock (RTC) renewable energy projects to improve grid efficiency. Issues related to deviation penalties, power curtailment, and transmission delays are also being actively reviewed.
He further highlighted key initiatives including the Green Energy Open Access rules, repowering of ageing wind turbines, and expansion of transmission networks under the Green Energy Corridor project.
Efforts are also underway to mobilise long-term, low-cost financing through mechanisms such as blended finance and credit enhancement. A recently launched 500 MW pilot under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) model is expected to enhance revenue certainty and improve market stability.
With global supply chains undergoing shifts, Joshi said India is well-positioned to emerge as a major manufacturing and supply hub in the wind energy sector.
He also called for greater integration of renewable systems combining wind, solar, and energy storage to ensure reliable and sustainable power supply.
Senior officials, including MNRE Secretary Santosh Sarangi, were also present at the event.
(DD News)
