India is transitioning into one of the global leaders in renewable energy deployment and wind power is a significant area of this transition. Based on India wind energy state-wise data, the country's total installed wind capacity is over 51.3 GW, which is the fourth highest in the world. With the government aiming for 150 GW of wind energy capacity by 2030, there is clearly ample room for growth and investment in this space.
First and foremost, the reason is that it reduces dependency on fossil fuels (which are less in India) and supports energy security.
It complements the renewable energy capacity by state as it contributes significantly to renewable energy sources, along with solar and hydropower.
With the 2030 renewable energy targets under the Paris Climate Agreement coming close, wind energy definitely gives India the edge.
Enables green job creation and industrial growth in regions with high wind energy potential.
India’s wind energy sector is concentrated in a few states with strong coastal and inland wind corridors. Here’s a detailed look at the leaders in wind power capacity by state in India:
Wind energy production in Gujarat has seen a consistent increase over the last decade. This is evident, as the state's total installed wind power generation capacity has reached 13,816 MW. This performance now makes Gujarat the number one state in terms of new installations.
The coastal winds, along with the Gulf of Khambhat and the Kutch, surely contribute to wind energy production.
Supported by large-scale investments from private players like KP Energy Ltd., which is actively developing wind energy projects in Gujarat.
Hosts some of India’s most promising future sites for offshore wind power.
Why it matters: Gujarat has been constantly working towards positioning itself to become India’s wind energy hub. This will drive growth in both onshore and offshore wind sectors.
Tamil Nadu has consistently been the leader in wind power generation in India, with over 11,830 MW installed capacity.
Home to some of the largest wind farms in India, including Muppandal Wind Farm, one of Asia’s biggest.
Growing support from the central as well as state government, auctions, and private investment.
A mature ecosystem with manufacturers, developers, and suppliers located within the state.
Contributes nearly one-fourth of India’s total wind capacity.
Why it matters: This shows the potential of wind power generation in Tamil Nadu, using wind energy at a large scale. It also serves as a motivation for other states in India.
Karnataka has slowly grown its wind energy production, crossing 7.5 GW installed capacity.
Benefited from policy support for hybrid renewable energy projects.
Emerging as a strong player in solar and wind due to geographic advantages.
Significant potential for future expansion. This is especially true in the northern regions of Karnataka.
Why it matters: Karnataka is actively engaging in hybrid models. This makes Karnataka one of the leaders in incorporating India’s renewable energy mix.
Maharashtra ranks among the top three states in wind power capacity by state in India, with over 5.5 GW installed capacity.
It was the early adopter of wind energy with large installations in Satara and Sangli.
Industries and urban centres have a strong demand for green power.
There is a high potential for repowering old wind farms. This can be done with modern turbines to enhance capacity.
Why it matters: This is a perfect example of industrial demand and policy incentives can increase the adoption of renewable energy at a larger scale. And, Maharashtra has shown just that!
Although Rajasthan is recognized as a solar power state, there is ample capacity to develop wind energy in Rajasthan in India, nearing 5 GW.
Strong wind corridors in western Rajasthan.
Scope for hybridization with massive solar installations already present.
Government-backed renewable policies promote large-scale investments.
Why it matters: To bring a balance to India’s renewable grid, Rajasthan's wind-solar hybrid capacity will be a crucial player.