India has achieved a major milestone in its renewable energy journey, recording its highest-ever annual addition in wind energy capacity. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, announced that the country added a record 6.1 GW of wind power capacity during 2025–26, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s clean energy transition.
Speaking at the Foundation Day event of the Wind Independent Power Producers Association (WIPPA), Joshi highlighted India’s growing prominence in the global wind energy sector. The country currently ranks fourth worldwide, with an installed wind energy capacity exceeding 56.1 GW and an additional 28 GW under various stages of implementation.
The Minister underscored the immense untapped potential of wind energy in India. According to estimates, the country’s wind energy potential at a hub height of 150 metres stands at nearly 1,164 GW. With sustained policy support and industry participation, the government aims to scale up wind capacity to 100 GW by 2030 and 156 GW by 2036. These efforts are expected to play a crucial role in helping India achieve its long-term net-zero emissions target by 2070.
Joshi also emphasised the strategic importance of wind energy in maintaining grid stability. Unlike solar power, wind energy generation peaks during evening and night hours, periods of high electricity demand. Nearly 45% of wind generation occurs during peak demand hours, making it an essential complement to solar energy in India’s renewable mix.
Highlighting key policy interventions, the Minister noted that the government has introduced a dedicated wind component under Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPOs) to ensure consistent demand. Additional reforms such as the enforcement of Late Payment Surcharge rules, transparent bidding mechanisms and the implementation of the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) are boosting investor confidence and encouraging domestic production.
India has also developed a strong manufacturing ecosystem in the wind sector, with an annual production capacity exceeding 24 GW and indigenisation levels ranging between 70% and 80%. The country’s supply chain now spans critical components such as blades, towers and gearboxes, strengthening its position as a self-reliant manufacturing hub.
Addressing industry concerns, Joshi stated that the government is actively considering the release of additional wind tenders and promoting hybrid and round-the-clock (RTC) renewable energy projects to enhance grid efficiency. Challenges related to Deviation Settlement Mechanism (DSM) penalties, curtailment, and transmission delays are also under review, with efforts underway to find balanced solutions.
The Minister further highlighted initiatives such as Green Energy Open Access rules, which enable industries to procure renewable power directly, and the expansion of transmission infrastructure under the Green Energy Corridor. Efforts are also being made to repower older wind turbines and improve overall efficiency.
On the financing front, the government is exploring innovative mechanisms including blended finance and credit enhancement frameworks to mobilise long-term, low-cost capital. A recently launched 500 MW pilot project under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) model is expected to bring greater revenue certainty and stability to the sector.
Joshi noted that the evolving global energy landscape presents a significant opportunity for India to emerge as a trusted manufacturing and supply partner, especially as countries seek to diversify supply chains away from traditional hubs.
Concluding his address, the Minister reaffirmed that India’s ambitious target of achieving 156 GW of wind capacity is well within reach. He called for increased focus on integrated renewable systems that combine wind, solar, and energy storage to ensure a reliable, sustainable, and resilient energy future.
