India Achieves Record 6.1 GW Wind Energy Addition in FY26; Targets 156 GW by 2036: Pralhad Joshi
The Minister emphasised that shifting global supply chains present a major opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing hub for wind energy equipment
Pralhad Joshi announced that India has achieved a historic milestone in wind energy, adding a record 6.1 GW capacity during 2025–26, marking the highest annual addition in the sector so far.
Addressing the Foundation Day event of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA), the Minister highlighted that India now ranks fourth globally in wind energy, with a total installed capacity exceeding 56.1 GW, while an additional 28 GW is currently under implementation.
Ambitious Capacity Targets
Emphasising the sector’s long-term potential, Joshi noted that India’s wind energy potential at 150-metre hub height stands at nearly 1,164 GW. He expressed confidence that the country is on track to achieve:
- 100 GW wind capacity by 2030
- 156 GW by 2036
These targets are expected to play a crucial role in supporting India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070.
Critical Role in Energy Stability
The Minister underscored wind energy’s importance in ensuring grid stability, particularly due to its peak generation during evening and night hours, complementing solar power. Nearly 45% of wind generation occurs during peak demand periods, making it a vital component of India’s renewable energy mix.
Policy Push and Industry Support
Highlighting key policy reforms, Joshi said the government has introduced several measures to boost the sector, including:
- Dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO)
- Enforcement of Late Payment Surcharge (LPS) rules
- Transparent bidding guidelines
- Implementation of Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM)
These steps are aimed at enhancing investor confidence and strengthening domestic manufacturing.
Strong Domestic Manufacturing Ecosystem
India has developed a robust wind manufacturing base with:
- Annual capacity exceeding 24 GW
- 70–80% indigenisation levels
The country also boasts strong supply chains across blades, towers, gearboxes, and other critical components.
Addressing Industry Challenges
Acknowledging sectoral concerns, the Minister said the government is actively working on:
- Additional wind tender issuance
- Promotion of hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) renewable projects
- Resolution of issues related to Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) penalties
- Curtailment and transmission delays
Efforts are underway to ensure practical and balanced solutions to support industry growth.
Key Initiatives Driving Growth
Joshi highlighted several initiatives accelerating wind energy adoption:
- Green Energy Open Access rules for direct industrial procurement
- Repowering of old wind turbines
- Expansion of transmission infrastructure under the Green Energy Corridor
- Innovative financing models such as blended finance and credit enhancement frameworks
A recently launched 500 MW pilot under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) model is expected to provide revenue certainty and improve market stability.
Global Opportunity for India
The Minister emphasised that shifting global supply chains present a major opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing hub for wind energy equipment.
Commending WIPPA’s role, he noted that the association has been instrumental in shaping policy dialogue and addressing sectoral challenges.
Way Forward
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Joshi stated that achieving 156 GW wind capacity over the next decade is well within reach, backed by strong policy direction and industry participation. He called for greater focus on integrated hybrid systems combining wind, solar, and storage to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.
