India wind ‘at 89GW by 2020′

Wind energy could soon pump 5GW a year into India’s grid to help fight power shortages, with the nation’s installed capacity hitting 89GW by 2020, a report claims.

Wind Energy Outlook, compiled by WISE, IWTMA and GWEC, said this would attract $16.5bn of annual investment, create 179,000 jobs and save 179 tons of CO2 annually.

By 2030, the study predicts India’s installed capacity could reach as much as 191GW. Its current capacity is 18GW.

Speaking as the report was unveiled at the opening of Wind Power India 2012, GWEC’s Secretary General Steve Sawyer said: “”Power shortages and energy security are both critical issues for India’s rapidly growing economy.

“Wind is already cost-competitive with heavily subsidized fossil fuel-based energy in several Indian states and its competitive position will only improve over time.

“But we need effective national energy policy, coordination with states, investments in the grid and policy stability for wind power to fulfil its potential in India.”

India was the third largest wind power market in 2011, after China and US, and fifth in overall cumulative installed capacity. The report shows its potential for wind power development reaches 400GW and more if the potential of offshore wind and repowering are fully exploited.

You can read the full report here.

Image: A nacelle  by Indian turbine manufacturer Suzlon (Suzlon)