Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy and Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri Pralhad Joshi, on Thursday highlighted India’s record-breaking progress in the wind energy sector while addressing the Foundation Day event of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA). He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to accelerating the country’s clean energy transition.

The Minister announced that India recorded its highest-ever annual wind energy capacity addition of 6.1 GW in 2025–26, taking the total installed capacity to over 56.1 GW, with an additional 28 GW currently under implementation. India now ranks fourth globally in wind energy capacity.

Highlighting the sector’s long-term potential, Joshi noted that India’s wind energy potential at 150-metre hub height stands at nearly 1164 GW. He expressed confidence that India will achieve 100 GW of wind capacity by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036, contributing significantly to the country’s net-zero target by 2070.

He emphasised wind energy’s critical role in ensuring grid stability, particularly due to its peak generation during evening and night hours, which aligns with high electricity demand. Nearly 45% of wind power generation occurs during peak demand periods, making it a key complement to solar energy.

On policy support, the Minister stated that the Government has introduced a dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to ensure consistent demand. Measures such as Late Payment Surcharge enforcement, transparent bidding frameworks, and the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) are boosting investor confidence and strengthening domestic manufacturing.

India has also built a robust domestic wind manufacturing ecosystem, with an annual capacity exceeding 24 GW and 70–80% indigenisation levels, supported by a strong supply chain across blades, towers, and gearboxes.

Addressing industry concerns, Joshi said the Government is evaluating the release of additional wind tenders and promoting hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) renewable projects. Issues related to Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) penalties, curtailment, and transmission delays are under active consideration.

He further highlighted key initiatives such as Green Energy Open Access rules, repowering of old turbines, and expansion of transmission infrastructure under the Green Energy Corridor. The Government is also working to mobilise low-cost, long-term financing through blended finance and credit enhancement mechanisms.

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

Joshi noted that the evolving global landscape presents a strong opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing and supply hub for wind energy, as countries increasingly diversify supply chains.

Congratulating WIPPA, he acknowledged the association’s role in policy advocacy and sectoral development, and called for greater focus on integrated hybrid systems combining wind, solar, and energy storage to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.

Senior officials, including MNRE Secretary Shri Santosh Sarangi, were also present at the event.