Introduction  

There is an evolutionary symbiosis between energy and civilisation. The progress achieved by modern human civilization is largely the result of the ability to discover new forms of usable energy in large quantities. But environmentally destructive methods of producing energy currently adopted by humans everywhere, threaten to destroy the progress and human welfare achieved so far. Today's fossil fuel-based energy economy is unsustainable in economic, social, and ecological terms. But it is perhaps not too late to mend our ways. The task before us is to engineer the transition from a fossil fuel-based energy system to a renewable energy economy, without major social, economic, or ecological disruptions.

In the last few years, many renewable energy (RE) technologies have become commercially viable. The most advanced and potent RE technology for power generation is Wind Power. India has emerged as the fourth largest producer of grid connected power from wind, with a cumulative installed capacity of 5340 MW, as on 31 March 2006. This is expected to touch the figure of 12,000 MW or more by 2010 the present estimated potential for wind power in the country is 45,000 MW. There are more than 210 windy sites identified across the country, with development taking place in 9 states.

Some positive factors helping wind power development are:

  • The establishment of a strong manufacturing base within the country.
     

  • At least three prominent Indian manufacturers of wind turbines figuring among the top ten in the world.
     

  • Introduction of the Electricity Act, 2003, that strongly favours the growth of renewable power.
     

  • Introduction of new tariff guidelines and proactive regulatory frameworks by several regulatory commissions.
     

  • Introduction of Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO) that has made purchase of wind power by utilities mandatory in many states.
     

  • Accelerated investments in the sector :

    • Current cumulative investments: 25,000 crore

    • Expected cumulative investments: 35,000 crore (by 2010)
       

  • Investment in wind power by conventional energy sector companies, thereby transitioning to sustainable technologies.
     

  • Growing environmental awareness and perception of wind as a clean and green energy.
     

  • The prospects of an additional revenue stream from carbon credits.