India poised to harness the full potential of wind power 

Wind power is gaining momentum as a sustainable energy source, driven by technological advancements and government incentives. 

Thanks to technological advances and supportive government policies, wind power is not just a trend, but a promising solution for a greener future. However, the industry faces challenges that require innovative solutions from stakeholders to fully harness its potential, says Karunamoorthy Neethimani, Managing Director, Windplus Private Limited.

What’s driving wind power growth and what challenges does it present for industry stakeholders?

As wind power gains popularity as a cleaner energy source, it’s crucial to remember that the industry’s growth and success depend on the actions of stakeholders. Governments are offering incentives for wind projects, but stakeholders face challenges such as intermittent electricity demand and supply fluctuations, which affect grid management. To address these issues, stakeholders must invest in better storage solutions and obtain energy-permitting barriers to ensure projects do not harm the environment or wildlife.

How are governments adjusting incentives to support wind power expansion amid shifting energy policies, and what does this mean for industry players?

Governments are implementing incentive frameworks like tax credits, feed-in tariffs, and renewable energy certificates to encourage private investment and reduce costs. These strategies aim to stimulate market potential and attract private investment. However, they also require stakeholders to adapt strategies like financial reassessment and technology adaptation. These changes reflect a commitment to accelerating the transition to renewable energy, presenting opportunities and challenges for industry stakeholders.

How are developers innovating to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness amid rising competition in wind projects?

Developers are not just facing challenges, they are also incorporating innovative techniques to increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of wind projects. These include enhancing turbine technology, integrating AI for predictive maintenance, implementing remote monitoring systems, exploring hybrid energy solutions, using floating offshore turbines, adopting digital twin technologies, and encouraging community engagement. 

How does integrating battery storage improve wind power reliability and grid integration, and what hurdles do developers face in this integration?

Integrating battery storage technology with wind power is a promising solution that enhances reliability and grid integration. It can smooth power output, firm renewable energy, peak shave, and provide grid support services. However, developers face barriers such as high upfront costs, technological challenges, regulatory frameworks, grid infrastructure constraints, and lifecycle environmental impacts. Overcoming these barriers through innovation is crucial, but it also requires strong policy support and market incentives. It is the responsibility of stakeholders to advocate for these measures to fully realize the benefits of integrated wind and battery projects and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon energy system. 

What strategies can companies use to succeed in India’s wind power EPC market, considering regulatory changes and competition?

Market insights and competitive pressures in India’s wind power EPC market may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, companies cannot only survive but thrive. By adopting technology, monitoring policies, developing a talented workforce, focusing on grid integration and storage solutions, managing compliance, localising project development, optimising costs, and diversifying their market, companies can position themselves for sustainable growth and success in the Indian wind power EPC market.

Despite these obstacles, with commitment, technological innovation, and collaborative efforts, the industry is poised to harness wind power’s full potential for generations to come.

Spokesperson: Karunamoorthy Neethimani, Managing Director, Windplus Private Limited,