A review of wind energy developments in India

Climate change, dwindling reserves of fossil fuels and shortage of electricity have prompted the government to give an impetus to renewable energy sources. Wind energy, with an average growth rate of 30%, is the fastest growing source of renewable energy in the world. India has a potential capacity of over 45,000 MW out of which 1869 MW has been extracted from this eco-friendly source. India stands at fifth position in the world in wind energy development. Policy initiatives and fiscal initiatives for realisation of the estimated potential already exist. This paper discusses an overview of wind assessment, monitoring, development and environmental impact in India. Financial interventions and state policies on commercialisation are also presented with a view to identifying the barriers for further commercialisation. (author)