India Launches National Offshore Wind Energy Mission with 10 GW Target by 2030

In a landmark initiative, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has launched the National Offshore Wind Energy Mission (NOWEM) to harness the vast wind energy potential along India's coastline. This initiative aims to install 10 GW of offshore wind power by 2030, helping India diversify its renewable energy mix beyond solar and onshore wind.

Why Offshore Wind?

India’s long coastline, stretching over 7,500 km, offers tremendous potential for offshore wind energy. Unlike onshore wind projects, offshore wind turbines operate at higher and more consistent wind speeds, ensuring greater efficiency and stable energy generation. Additionally, offshore wind does not require large land areas, making it a more feasible option for densely populated regions.

Key Features of the Mission:

•First Two Offshore Wind Farms:

•Gujarat Offshore Wind Project – 2 GW

•Tamil Nadu Offshore Wind Project – 3 GW

Investment and Funding:

•Government to provide Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to reduce capital costs and make offshore wind power affordable.

•International collaboration with Denmark, the Netherlands, and the UK for technology transfer and expertise.

Policy Support:

•Fast-tracking environmental and maritime clearances.

•Special incentives for private companies investing in offshore wind.

Economic and Environmental Benefits:

•Offshore wind farms will provide clean electricity to over 10 million homes.

•Reduce dependence on coal-based power, cutting 40 million metric tons of CO? emissions annually.

•Expected to generate 100,000 direct and indirect jobs in the renewable energy sector.

The government plans to auction 5 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2026, with construction beginning in 2027. By 2030, India aims to become a global leader in offshore wind energy, competing with major players like the UK, Germany, and China.