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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:
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The
establishment of a strong manufacturing base within the country.
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At
least three prominent Indian manufacturers of wind turbines
figuring among the top ten in the world.
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Introduction of the Electricity Act, 2003, that strongly favours
the growth of renewable power.
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Introduction of new tariff guidelines and proactive regulatory
frameworks by several regulatory commissions.
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Introduction of Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO) that has made
purchase of wind power by utilities mandatory in many states.
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Accelerated investments in the sector :
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Current cumulative investments: 25,000 crore
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Expected cumulative investments: 35,000 crore (by 2010)
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Investment in wind power by conventional energy sector companies,
thereby transitioning to sustainable technologies.
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Growing environmental awareness and perception of wind as a clean
and green energy.
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The
prospects of an additional revenue stream from carbon credits.
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