Indias Wind Energy Potential Surpasses Expectations, Demand to Surge by 2070

New Delhi, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : India's onshore wind energy capacity is significantly greater than previously estimated, according to a report released by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) on November 2, 2026. The report indicates that at a hub height of 150 meters, the potential capacity reaches 1,209.7 gigawatts, and at 200 meters, it could be as high as 2,933.9 gigawatts.The report also assessed offshore wind energy potential, estimating it at approximately 220 gigawatts and 277 gigawatts for wind speeds of at least 7.0 meters per second. It identifies priority areas that require further verification of resource capacity while outlining measures to enhance wind energy development and the necessary supporting infrastructure. As of September 30, 2026, India's installed wind energy capacity stood at 59.20 gigawatts, following a record addition of about 6.05 gigawatts in the fiscal year 2025-26.The report highlights that with the rising electricity demand and expansion of renewable energy, a better understanding of wind energy resources can aid in planning electricity generation, renewable energy procurement, and investment in power transmission. The estimated wind energy capacity at 150 meters is predominantly concentrated in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Karnataka, which together account for around 61 percent. Including Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, these five states contribute nearly 79 percent of the total capacity.The report predicts that by 2070, the demand for grid-connected electricity in India could increase nearly elevenfold from current levels. It estimates a goal of 891 gigawatts of wind energy capacity by that year, reflecting the potential for significant expansion based on technology costs and assumptions related to the power system. As India moves towards its net-zero goals, a comprehensive geographic assessment of wind energy resources will be crucial to determine where renewable energy capacity can be developed.This will also inform the necessary investments in transmission, energy system flexibility, and manufacturing. Additionally, the report identifies six key pathways for utilizing wind energy in the industry. These include developing new onshore wind energy plants, modernizing existing facilities, installing turbines at greater heights, integrating wind-solar-battery storage, procuring power at an industrial scale, and establishing fixed and floating offshore wind energy plants.