Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread. (UPSC 2022)

India has a very high wind energy potential and it is crucial for energy security and the clean energy transition.

• Potential: NIWE estimates about 695.5 GW at 120 m and 1,164 GW at 150 m hub height; offshore potential is around 71 GW, mainly off Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.
• Limited spatial spread: Over 95% of onshore potential is concentrated in eight states, especially Gujarat, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, because usable wind speeds above 5.5–6 m/s occur mainly along coasts, ridges and mountain gaps.
• Constraints: Many inland, eastern and north-eastern states lack suitable winds; seasonal variability, land acquisition, weak transmission, high transport costs for large turbines and cheaper solar power further narrow expansion.

Thus, India’s wind resource is large but geographically concentrated, and wider spread needs stronger grids, repowering, offshore development and storage.