Union Government launches Scheme for setting up 1000 MW Wind Power Project connected to CTU

Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on 15 June 2016 launched Scheme for setting up of 1000 MW Wind Power Project connected to Central Transmission Utility (CTU) transmission network.

The scheme has been launched with an objective to facilitate supply of wind power to the non-windy states at a price discovered through transparent bidding process.

The launching of the scheme is in line with the Union Government’s ambitious target of achieving 175 GW power capacity from renewable energy resources by 2022. Out of 175 GW, 60 GW will come from wind power.

Key features of the Scheme

•    It envisages building of 1000 MW CTU-connected Wind Power Project on build, own and operate (BOO) basis.

•    The capacity may go higher than 1000 MW, if there is higher demand from Discoms of non-windy states.

•    Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has been designated as nodal agency for implementation of the scheme.

•    It will encourage competitiveness through scaling up of project sizes and introduction of efficient and transparent e-bidding and e-auctioning processes.

•    It will also facilitate fulfilment of Non-Solar Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) requirement of non-windy states.

Status of Wind Power in India

It was in early 90’s India started generating electricity from wind power projects and since then this segment has achieved highest growth amongst the other renewable energy technologies.

The present wind power installed capacity in India stands at approx 26.7 GW contributing about 9% of total installed capacity. Globally, India is at 4th position in term of wind power installed capacity after China, USA and Germany.

The National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) assesses the Wind power potential in India at 100-m above ground level, which is estimated to be over 302 GW.

The states with highest wind power potential are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.

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