India’s Wind Power Capacity Could Cross 250 GW by 2035, Suzlon’s Girish Tanti

India’s Wind Power Capacity Set to Surge Beyond 250 GW by 2035, Says Suzlon’s Girish Tanti

The Indian wind energy sector is poised for significant growth, potentially exceeding government targets and reshaping the energy landscape.

Revising Wind Energy Targets

Girish Tanti emphasized that the Indian government’s current wind energy target of 155 GW by 2035 is likely to be revised upwards, potentially reaching 250 GW. This optimistic forecast is bolstered by a surge in electricity demand and the readiness of supply chains to support such growth. Tanti noted that the anticipated demand for wind energy could reach approximately 147 GW by 2035, with an additional 100 GW expected from the commercial and industrial (C&I) open-access market, bringing the total demand close to 250 GW.

Economic Implications of Increased Capacity

A recent government study highlighted that adopting a least-cost path to expand wind capacity by 93 GW could save the Indian government around ₹2 trillion in energy imports. This financial incentive, coupled with the environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy, underscores the strategic importance of wind power in India’s energy policy.

Current Progress and Future Outlook

India is on track to meet its interim target of 100 GW of wind capacity by 2030, with 59 GW already completed, 29 GW under execution, and an additional 15 GW in construction for the C&I market. Tanti expressed confidence that achieving this target is a “done deal,” indicating a robust pipeline of projects that will contribute to the sector’s growth.

Global Supply Chain Opportunities

Looking ahead, Tanti envisions India becoming a global hub for wind energy manufacturing, targeting exports to Southeast Asia, Europe, and regions like Africa and South America. As trade relations improve, particularly with the US, the potential for Indian manufacturers to tap into a global market of 133 countries utilizing wind power is significant.

Addressing Transmission Challenges

Historically, India’s transmission systems have been designed for conventional energy projects, which have longer gestation periods. However, renewable projects, including wind, can be executed in a much shorter timeframe of 18-36 months. Tanti noted that government efforts are underway to align grid development with the faster execution timelines of renewable projects, which will help mitigate transmission bottlenecks in the coming years.

Key Highlights

• India’s wind power capacity could exceed 250 GW by 2035, surpassing the current target of 155 GW.
• Projected demand for wind energy is expected to reach around 147 GW, with an additional 100 GW from the C&I market.
• The government could save ₹2 trillion by expanding wind capacity to 250 GW.
• India is on track to meet its 100 GW wind capacity target by 2030.
• India’s wind turbine manufacturing capacity stands at 28-29 GW annually, with expectations to reach 13.5 GW by 2030.

Investor Note: The anticipated growth in India’s wind power capacity presents significant investment opportunities, particularly as the government revises its targets and the sector prepares for increased demand and global export potential.