Shakti’s Annual Work Planning Workshop: Clean Power Programme Navigating Wind Energy Opportunities in India

The Clean Power team of Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation organised the  first session of its Annual Workplan Workshop on January 25, 2024, at Shakti office. The workshop commenced with an inaugural session focusing on ‘Navigating Wind Energy Opportunities in India.’ This event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Consulting Partners, and Industry representatives, to deliberate on the challenges associated with both on-shore and off-shore wind energy deployment.

Discussions during the workshop aimed to identify potential policy solutions to overcome the hurdles in wind energy development in India. Recognising wind energy as a pivotal component in India’s pursuit of sustainable and renewable energy sources, participants explored the significant potential presented by the country’s vast and windy regions for both onshore and offshore wind energy.

While acknowledging the growth of onshore wind power in diversifying the energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, participants also highlighted the emergence of offshore wind energy as a crucial element in the global transition towards clean energy sources. India, with its ambitious renewable energy targets, is actively exploring opportunities in this sector.

Challenges such as land acquisition issues, grid integration constraints, intermittency concerns, and policy uncertainties were addressed during the workshop. Efforts to tackle these challenges through innovative solutions, including hybrid energy systems, energy storage, and improved forecasting techniques, were emphasized.

In particular, discussions focused on the specific challenges facing onshore wind projects, such as land availability, grid integration, policy stability, financing, and technological advancements. Similarly, the consultation also delved into critical aspects of offshore wind development, including procurement mechanisms, complementarity with other technologies, socio-economic impacts, skill requirements, and capacity building.

The workshop provided a platform for experts to share their perspectives and insights, fostering collaboration and networking among stakeholders from various sectors. Overall, the event contributed to advancing the discourse on wind energy development in India, setting the stage for continued growth and innovation in the sector.