Tata Power Renewable Signs 838 MW Wind Turbine Deal with Suzlon to Accelerate India’s Clean Energy Goals

Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL), a key player in India’s green energy landscape and a subsidiary of The Tata Power Company Limited (Tata Power), has signed a contract with Suzlon Group (Suzlon) for the supply of wind turbine generators with a combined capacity of 838 MW. These turbines will support TPREL’s various projects across multiple states, scheduled for completion over the next few years.

This partnership reinforces TPREL’s position as a leader in India’s renewable energy transition, playing a vital role in advancing the country’s target of reaching 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. It also reflects TPREL’s focus on scaling up wind-led clean energy projects that are reliable, dispatchable, and economically viable.

TPREL has a wind energy portfolio exceeding 3.9 GW, with over 1 GW operational and the remainder under various stages of development across Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.

Under the agreement, Suzlon - a prominent renewable energy player- will deliver a comprehensive end-to-end solution for these projects, leveraging its extensive expertise in the wind energy domain.

The agreement marks the third strategic collaboration between TPREL and Suzlon, highlighting a strong partnership built over more than a decade.

This initiative supports Tata Power’s overarching goal of achieving 100% clean energy by 2045 and complements its expanding renewable energy portfolio, which currently totals 15.7 GW, with 6.9 GW sourced from clean energy.

Adani Incorporates New Subsidiary Focused on Solar and Wind Energy Manufacturing

Adani Enterprises has taken a significant step in renewable energy by incorporating a new subsidiary, Adani New Industries One Limited (ANIOL). This entity, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL), will focus on manufacturing and services related to solar and wind energy. ANIOL will handle trading and supplying equipment like solar panels, inverters, wind turbines, and blades, aiming to strengthen the Adani Group's presence in the renewable energy sector.

The subsidiary has an authorized capital of ₹1,00,000, divided into 10,000 equity shares. While ANIOL is yet to commence operations, its establishment is a strategic move to strengthen the Adani Group's presence in the renewable energy sector.

ANIOL's focus on manufacturing solar panels, inverters, wind turbines, and blades could reduce India's reliance on imported renewable energy equipments, fostering self-reliance in the sector.

By enhancing the supply chain for solar and wind energy, ANIOL could accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects, helping India achieve its ambitious renewable energy targets.

This move aligns with India's commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030, as outlined in its climate action goals.

India’s Wind Energy Installations Down by 32% YoY in Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, India added 770 MW of wind energy capacity, which is a 32% decrease compared to the 1,139.9 MW added in Q2 2023, according to Mercom India Research. This decline was primarily due to delays in granting grid connectivity, land availability issues, right-of-way challenges, and the early onset of the monsoon in some states.

Karnataka led the capacity additions with 450 MW, followed by Tamil Nadu with 186 MW, Gujarat with 130 MW, and Maharashtra with 4.2 MW. Despite the quarterly drop, the cumulative installed wind capacity in India rose to 46.6 GW by the end of June 2024.

During Q2 2024, several notable wind energy projects were commissioned in India. Juniper Green’s 25.2 MW Wind Power Project in Gujarat. ReNew Power and a few other companies also commissioned significant capacities during this period.

As of the end of Q2 2024, India's cumulative installed wind energy capacity reached 46.6 GW. This represents a 1.7% increase from the 45.9 GW recorded at the end of March 2024.

Wind energy projects in India face several challenges. Securing land for wind farms can be difficult due to high land costs, legal disputes, and opposition from local communities. Delays in obtaining grid connectivity approvals and inadequate transmission infrastructure can hinder project timeliness.

Besides these, frequent changes in policies and regulations, along with the shift to auction-based tariffs, have created uncertainty and slowed down project implementation.

By 2030, India aims to achieve a cumulative installed wind energy capacity of 140 GW. However, experts suggest that a more realistic target might be around 100 GW by the end of the decade.

In June, Indian government approved the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme to support the development of offshore wind energy projects. The scheme has a total outlay of ₹7,453 crore, which includes ₹6,853 crore for the installation and commissioning of 1 GW of offshore wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu) and ₹600 crore for upgrading two ports to meet the logistics requirements.

Adani Green's Subsidiary Operationalizes 250 Mw Wind Power Capacity in Khavda, Gujarat

Adani Renewable Energy Forty One Limited, a wholly-owned stepdown subsidiary of Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), has successfully operationalized the first 250 MW wind capacity at the world's largest 30,000 MW renewable energy plant located in Khavda, Gujarat.

This development increases the operational capacity at the Khavda plant to 2,250 MW, solidifying AGEL's leadership with a total operational portfolio of 11,184 MW across India. The Khavda Renewable Energy plant boasts some of the best wind resources in India, with wind speeds averaging around 8 meters per second. It is equipped with some of the world's largest and most powerful onshore wind turbine generators (WTGs), each with a capacity of 5.2 MW. These high-capacity WTGs enable efficient land use, resulting in higher energy yields and reduced levelized cost of energy (LCOE).

Earlier in February, AGEL operationalized 551 MW solar capacity in Khavda, by supplying power to the national grid. Later in the following month, AGEL operationalized 126 MW wind power capacity at the plant. This marked the completion of the 300 MW of project, with 174 MW being operationalized earlier.

Wind energy plays a crucial role in India's energy mix, complementing solar power generation during the day and aiding grid stability when paired with storage solutions.

AGEL's commitment to building an indigenous supply chain and supporting the 'Made in India' initiative is evident through the advanced German technology used in manufacturing these WTGs near the Mundra port ². With this milestone, AGEL has transformed the barren wasteland of Khavda into a hub of clean and affordable energy, capable of powering 16.1 million homes annually.

Adani Group portfolio firm, Adani Infra, is developing innovative solutions to address terrain challenges at Khavda. For example, they have deployed underground stone columns to enhance soil strength, developed with global collaboration involving both domestic and international institutions. Specialised corrosion- resistant coatings are also being used for solar module mounting structures and switchyard equipment to ensure long-term protection in highly corrosive environments.

India's renewable energy goals receive a significant boost with Adani Green Energy Limited's (AGEL) operationalization of the first 250 MW wind capacity in Khavda, Gujarat. The 250 MW wind capacity adds to India's total renewable energy capacity, contributing to the national target of achieving 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030.

The Khavda wind farm generates clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It aligns with India's commitment to combat climate change.

Wind energy complements solar power by providing electricity during non-sunny hours. This helps maintain grid stability and ensures a consistent power supply.

AGEL's investment in wind energy infrastructure creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, supporting India's economic growth. The use of advanced German technology for wind turbine generators contributes to India's indigenous supply chain and the 'Make in India' initiative.

The 250 MW capacity can power approximately 16.1 million homes annually, improving energy access and quality of life.

In summary, AGEL's wind capacity operationalization contributes significantly to India's renewable energy transition, fostering sustainability and energy security.

Sri Lankan Regulator Decline Approval for Adani Green's 484 MW Wind Power Project

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has declined to grant approval for the procurement of the 484 MW wind power plant in Mannar and Pooneryn to Adani Green Energy SL Ltd. (AGESL), reported the Sunday Times.

Mentioning a copy of a letter from the power sector regulator to the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) 's Acting General Manager, the report said that the reason for the refusal by PUCSL is that the information submitted by the CEB was inadequate to assess the least cost and technical compatibility. It appears that even basic details, such as the full draft power purchase agreement (PPA) between the CEB and AGESL, were not provided.

The CEB has requested PUCSL permission to award the power plants to AGESL under the Sri Lanka Electricity Act. However, the schedules of the draft PPA, the signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of India, and clearance granted by the Attorney General’s Department were missing.

The environmental impact assessment (EIA) results and details of the environmental license issued by the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) were not submitted either. The PUCSL has requested additional information to process the approval.

The procurement details for the construction of the 400kV transmission line from Kilinochchi to Habarana and the related cost-recovery mechanism too are missing, along with information regarding bid values received for the tender called for the 50 MW wind power plant in Mannar, situated in close proximity to the Adani project.

In February 2023, Sri Lanka's Board of Investment approved the development of a $442-million wind power project by Adani Green Energy. The proposed wind power plants were to be built in Mannar and Pooneryn in Northern Sri Lanka.

Last week, the Bishop of the Diocese of Mannar, a Roman Catholic diocese for north-western Sri Lanka, and three prominent environmentalists filed a public interest litigation in the Sri Lankan Supreme Court challenging the 250 MW Mannar Wind Power Project.

This legal challenge is the first faced by the formidable Adani Group in Sri Lanka. The litigation questions the procurement process, construction, and credibility of the Project's environmental impact assessment (EIA). It names 67 respondents, including the Cabinet of Ministers, the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA), and the Attorney General.

The negotiated tariff for Adani's wind power project is $0.0826 (8.26 cents per kilowatt-hour) for 20 years. However, independent Sri Lankan energy experts argue that Adani sells power to the Indian state at less than $0.04 per kWh. The petition challenges the basis for this tariff, expressing concerns about financial losses for Sri Lanka and consumer burden.

The petitioners highlight that data related to the project has not been made available for public scrutiny. They request the release of all files and records, including bids, deliberations, and project assessments.

The decision by the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) to refuse approval for the project could impact energy supply, investment, and renewable energy goals in the country.

AGESL's next steps involve addressing the PUCSL's concerns, providing additional information, and engaging with regulators.

In summary, this project faces legal challenges, tariff debates, and transparency issues. The outcome will shape Sri Lanka's renewable energy landscape.

This Single 7 Football-Fields Size Wind Turbine in China Can Power 36,000 Households Yearly

China has installed the world's first 18 MW wind turbine, which is a significant milestone in renewable energy. This semi-direct drive offshore wind-turbine can generate enough electricity to power approximately 36,000 households annually. The turbine was installed by Dongfang Electric Corporation (DEC), a state-owned manufacturer, at a coastal test base in Guangdong province.

The turbine's rotor diameter is an impressive 853 feet (260 meters), and it sweeps an area of over 570,000 square feet (53,000 square meters), equivalent to 7.4 standard football fields. It's expected to produce 72 GWh-hours (72 million kWh) of energy each year, which not only meets the energy demands of thousands of homes but also saves about 22,000 tonnes of coal from being burned and prevents the release of 59,000 tonnes of carbon emissions.

🆕A new 18 MW semi-direct drive offshore wind turbine, developed by #DEC, was installed at a coastal test base in Shantou, South China's Guangdong province, on June 5.

✅With a 260-m rotor diameter, the turbine has a swept area of 53,000 sq m, equivalent to 7.4 standard football… pic.twitter.com/85I9E0TpRi

— Dongfang Electric (@DongfangGlobal) June 7, 2024

This development is a part of the global shift towards phasing out fossil fuels and increasing reliance on renewable energy sources. It's interesting to note that this trend of constructing larger wind turbines is particularly prominent among Chinese manufacturers.

Dongfang Electric Corporation (DEC) is a prominent Chinese state-owned enterprise and one of the world's leading power equipment manufacturers. It was established in 1984 and is headquartered in Chengdu, Sichuan, China. It originated from the Dongfang Electric Machinery Plant, which was founded in 1958. The company specializes in developing, designing, manufacturing, and selling equipment for various types of power plants, including hydro, thermal, nuclear, wind, steam, and solar thermal-based plants. Their product range is quite extensive and includes everything from boilers to turbines and generators.

With a worldwide market share, DEC has been recognized as the second-largest manufacturer of steam turbines. The company serves customers not only in China but also internationally, reflecting its significant global footprint.

In recent years, DEC has expanded its operations and ventured into new projects. For instance, in 2024, they built a 220 MWac Samarkand solar PV plant in Uzbekistan and opened the DEC hydrogen energy industrial park in Chengdu.

Like many large corporations, DEC has faced its share of controversies. It was accused by General Electric of benefiting from a rigged tendering process for a contract awarded by South African utility giant Eskom.

Suzlon to Supply 175 Wind Turbines of 3.15 Mw Each to Aditya Birla Group

• Suzlon secures a new 551.25 MW order for the 3 MW series from Global Indian Conglomerate, Aditya Birla Group
• Order to be executed across two sites, 368.55 MW at the site developed by Suzlon in the Barmer district, Rajasthan and another 182.70 MW at the site developed by client in the Bhuj district, Gujarat.
• Generated power to be utilised for captive usage within the Aditya Birla Group companies.
• A project of this size can provide electricity to ~4.54 lakh households and curb ~17.92 lakh tonnes of CO2 emissions per year

Suzlon Group, India's largest renewable energy solutions provider, has announced a new order win for the development of 551.25 MW wind power project for the Aditya Birla Group, a Global Indian Conglomerate. Suzlon will install 175 wind turbine generators (WTGs) with a Hybrid Lattice Tubular (HLT) tower and a rated capacity of 3.15 MW each at sites in the Barmer district in Rajasthan and Bhuj district in Gujarat.

This order is for the company's larger rated 3.15 MW, S144-140m turbines from the 3 MW product series. As part of the agreement, Suzlon will supply the wind turbines (equipment supply) and execute the project, including erection and commissioning, in Rajasthan, while they will supply, supervise, and commission the project in Gujarat. Suzlon will also undertake comprehensive operations and maintenance services post- commissioning at both the sites.

This project is a testament to the growing commitment to renewable energy in India and aligns with national targets to ramp up renewable capacities. It's expected to provide electricity to approximately 4.54 lakh households and reduce around 17.92 lakh tonnes of CO2 emissions annually 2. A move like this by a major conglomerate sets an example for others in India Inc. to follow in the pursuit of green energy solutions.

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman, Suzlon Group, said, "We are delighted to partner once again with the Aditya Birla Group for this order. Suzlon admires and shares the value of nation building with the Aditya Birla Group and welcomes this opportunity to power them with sustainable energy. We applaud ABG's visionary approach to power operations across its group companies with renewable energy and set an example for India Inc. Suzlon's comprehensive and proven product portfolio, customised for the Indian wind regime, will be instrumental in ramping up India's renewable energy capacities in line with our national targets while powering the Indian industry with green energy."

JP Chalasani, Chief Executive Officer, Suzlon Group, said, "Every repeat customer is a validation of our technology and service prowess. I am grateful that the Aditya Birla Group has reaffirmed their faith in Suzlon's end-to-end solutions, products, and service excellence. This order will enable us to further strengthen our presence in Rajasthan and Gujarat while helping the states unlock their true wind energy potential. Every Suzlon turbine is a testament to "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" being manufactured in India through a thriving domestic ecosystem."

Jayant Dua, Business Head and Director, Aditya Birla Renewables Limited, said, "At Aditya Birla Renewables Limited, we prioritise partnerships that enhance our mission to power India Inc. with renewable energy, expanding the accessibility of green power throughout the country. Suzlon's technological expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and comprehensive project development skills will help accelerate our energy transition journey and support our net-zero commitments."

Suzlon turbines feature the time tested Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) technology that efficiently integrates wind turbines into the utility network to meet the grid requirements. Suzlon's R&D efforts are continuously geared towards increasing turbine performance, harnessing more energy from low wind sites, and lowering the cost of energy.

Suzlon Gets New Orders of 402 MW from Juniper Green Energy; To Supply 134 Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs) Each of 3 MW Capacity

• Project at Fatehgarh site in Rajasthan, with a total installed capacity of 402 MW
• Generated power will be provided under FDRE (Firm and Dispatchable Renewable Energy) Hybrid and Merchant projects
• Projects of this size can provide electricity to ~3.31 lakh households and curb ~13.07 lakh tonnes of CO2 emissions per year

Suzlon Group, India's largest renewable  energy solutions provider, today announced new order wins for the development of 402 MW wind energy projects for Juniper Green Energy. Suzlon will install a total of 134 wind turbine generators (WTGs) with a Hybrid Lattice Tubular (HLT) tower and a rated capacity of 3 MW for both projects at the Suzlon proposed site at Fatehgarh in Rajasthan.

These are repeat orders from the customer for the company's larger rated 3 MW, S144-140m turbines from the 3 MW product series. As part of the agreement, Suzlon will supply the wind turbines and execute the project including foundation, erection, and commissioning. Suzlon will also undertake comprehensive operations and maintenance services post-commissioning.

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman, Suzlon Group, said, "Juniper Green Energy has been a long-term, repeat customer for us, and we are delighted to partner with them again. This order helps us expand our footprint in Rajasthan. The electricity generated from these projects will help realise the vision of the Rajasthan government to serve the people of the state with green energy. Suzlon's proven product portfolio, customised for the Indian wind regime, is dedicated to reducing the cost of energy while increasing affordability and accessibility of renewable energy in line with our national targets. At Suzlon, we are committed to India's renewable ambitions while staying true to the vision of 'Make in India' and an Aatmanirbhar Bharat."

JP Chalasani, Chief Executive Officer, Suzlon Group, said, "We are delighted to announce multiple repeat orders with Juniper Group in the last one year. Juniper, a leading Indian Independent Power Producer (IPP) of great repute, has consistently worked towards increasing renewable energy installations in the country. Suzlon takes pride in the fact that committed customers like Juniper Green Energy continue to choose our leading technology and comprehensive capabilities throughout the entire wind energy value chain. Our comprehensive portfolio of world-class products customised for the Indian wind regime are manufactured in the country through a thriving domestic value chain ecosystem."

Naresh Mansukhani, Chief Executive Officer, Juniper Green Energy Private Limited, said, "At Juniper, we always strive for alliances that help us in our journey of increasing the reach of renewable energy in India with a focus on sustainability. We are delighted to partner with Suzlon again as the country's leading renewable energy solutions provider. Suzlon's unmatched technology and comprehensive EPC capabilities help us fulfill our vision of building a sustainable India through cost- effective, Made in India renewable energy solutions."

Suzlon turbines feature the time tested Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) technology that efficiently integrates wind turbines into the utility network to meet the grid requirements. Suzlon's R&D efforts are continuously geared towards increasing turbine performance, harnessing more energy from low wind sites, and lowering the cost of energy.

Juniper Green Energy is an independent renewable energy power producer and operator of solar, wind and hybrid power projects with significant experience in conceptualizing, building, and developing renewable energy assets. The company is part of the AT Group, which has an asset portfolio worth of approximately US$2.5 billion with global investments in renewable energy, residential & commercial real estate, hospitality, etc. The Group has been building utility scale renewable energy projects in India since 2010 and has built and owned Orange Renewable, a 1 GW renewable energy platform in the past.

Juniper Green Energy, based out of Delhi NCR, commenced operations in October 2018. The business has experienced rapid growth, and it presently has an operational portfolio of about 1 GW with an under-construction capacity of 1.5 GW and a development pipeline of close to 5.5 GW of solar, wind and hybrid projects. The company has end-to-end internal competencies in EPC and O&M services for its renewable projects.

Adani Green Energy Completes Operationalization of 300 MW Wind Power Project In Gujarat

Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL), India's largest and one of the world's leading renewable energy companies, has successfully operationalized a 300 MW wind power project in Gujarat. This project adds to AGEL's impressive portfolio, which now stands at 9,604 MW of operational renewable energy capacity.

The project is expected to generate 1,091 million electricity units annually, which could reduce CO2 emissions by around 0.8 million tonnes per year.

Operating India’s largest renewable energy portfolio of 9,604 MW, Adani Green Energy's operational assets are maintained and monitored by the cloud-based platform, the Energy Network Operations Centre (ENOC), which enables real-time monitoring and leverages analytics and machine learning setting benchmarks for industry-leading performance.

The Adani Energy Network Operation Centre (ENOC) is a cloud-based platform that uses machine learning, drones, and digital asset mapping to monitor project progress. It is a centralized location that manages and monitors energy dispatches from around the world in real time. The ENOC also aims to maximize the potential for scaling up the energy portfolio.

Wind energy is critical to India’s energy mix for grid balancing. The complementary nature of wind energy, integrated with solar and other sources, strengthens grid stability. According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India has the fourth highest wind installed capacity in the world. The National Institute of Wind Energy has estimated India’s gross wind power potential at 695.5 at 120 metres and 1163.9 GW at 150 metres above ground level.

Here are the key details about this project:

Project Capacity: The 300 MW wind project comprises two phases. The first phase of 174 MW was operationalized earlier, and the second phase of 126 MW has now been completed.

Annual Electricity Production: The entire 300 MW project is expected to produce approximately 1,091 million electricity units annually.

Environmental Impact: By generating clean energy, this wind project will help avoid approximately 0.8 million tons of CO2 emissions each year. 

Juniper Green Energy Secures Gujarat's 1GW Wind and Solar Projects Worth ₹8,000 Crore

Juniper Green Energy, a leading player in the renewable energy sector, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of Gujarat during the Investment Promotion Activity for Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024. The MOU signifies an ambitious collaboration to establish 1GW of Wind and Solar projects in the state, with a substantial investment of ₹8,000 Crores.

The signing ceremony took place on 3rd January 2024, at Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and underscores Juniper Green Energy's commitment to bolstering India's renewable energy infrastructure. This strategic move aligns with the company's vision of contributing significantly to the nation's sustainable energy goals.

Juniper Green Energy envisions the establishment of 1GW wind and solar projects in Gujarat, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and green energy adoption. The proposed employment generation of 1500 jobs reflects the company's intent to contribute to the socio-economic development of the region. The transformative projects that encompasses both Wind and Solar energy, marks a pivotal moment in Gujarat's journey towards clean and sustainable power. The proposed investment of ₹8,000 Crores underscores Juniper Green Energy's dedication to advancing India's green energy landscape and fostering economic growth.

Naresh Mansukhani, CEO of Juniper Green Energy, expressed his views on the collaboration, "We are thrilled to partner with the Government of Gujarat in this monumental venture. This MOU is a testament to our shared commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. Juniper Green Energy looks forward to leveraging its expertise to drive innovation, create employment opportunities, and foster sustainable development in Gujarat."

This collaboration with the Government of Gujarat marks a significant stride for Juniper Green Energy and reinforces the Company’s position as a key player in the renewable energy sector but also demonstrates its pivotal role in India's transition towards cleaner and greener energy sources.

About Juniper Green Energy

Juniper Green Energy is an independent renewable energy power producer and operator of solar, wind and hybrid power projects with significant experience in conceptualizing, building, and developing renewable energy assets. The company is part of the AT Group which has an asset portfolio worth of approximately US$2.5 billion with global investments in renewable energy, residential & commercial real estate, hospitality etc. The Group has been building utility scale renewable energy projects in India since 2010 and built and owned Orange Renewable, a 1GW renewable energy platform in the past.

Juniper Green Energy, based out of Delhi NCR, commenced operations in October 2018. The business has experienced rapid growth, and it presently has an operational portfolio of about 800MW with an under-construction capacity of 435MW and a development pipeline of more than 3 GW of solar, wind and hybrid projects. The company has end-to-end internal competencies in EPC and O&M services for its renewable projects.

MRF To Acquire Equity Stake in First Energy 8 for ~ ₹35.8 Cr

MRF, an Indian multinational tyre manufacturing company, will acquire upto 27.2% of equity stake in Pune-headquartered First Energy 8 Pvt Ltd, for about ₹35.87 crore, said media reports including BusinessLine.

Incorporated last year in August, First Energy 8 Pvt Ltd is a renewable energy startup company which is developing a wind power plant with a capacity of 47.4 MW in Tamil Nadu.

The time period for completion of the acquisition via cash consideration is Jan. 31.

The BusinessLine report said that, MRF, the largest manufacturer of tyres in India, has entered into a power purchase agreement with First Energy 8 for the purchase of wind power under the captive power policy.

As per the captive power policy, a captive users are required to own at least 26% in the captive generating plant. If the captive generating plant is established by an affiliate company, the captive user must hold no less than 51% of the ownership in that affiliate company.

In May 2023, MRF inked an agreement with First Energy 4 Pvt Ltd to purchase solar power, and at that time the renewable energy company was in the process of building a ground-mounted, grid solar electric generating facility at Ottapidaram, Tuticorin district in Tamil Nadu with a total installed capacity of 38.2 MW.

Suzlon Secures Two New Orders of 100.8 MW Each from Mahindra Susten and A Leading Nordic Energy Company

Suzlon Group has announced two new separate orders for wind power projects in Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively of 100.8 MW each from — Mahindra Susten Private Limited, a Mahindra Group company, and the Indian subsidiary of a leading Nordic Energy Company.

For Mahindra Susten, Suzlon will install 48 units of their S120 - 140m wind turbine generators (WTGs) with a Hybrid Lattice tubular (HLT) tower and a rated capacity of 2.1 MW each in Maharashtra. Suzlon will execute the project with a full scope of supply, installation, and commissioning. Additionally, Suzlon will also undertake post-commissioning operation and maintenance services.

Electricity generated from the project will be supplied to Commercial and Industrial(C&I) customers in the state of Maharashtra.

For the Nordic Energy Company, Suzlon will install 32 wind turbine generators (WTGs) with a Hybrid Lattice Tubular (HLT) tower and a rated capacity of 3.15 MW each. The project is located at Karnataka. This is the repeat order from the customer for the company's largest turbine rated 3.15 MW, S144- 140m from the 3 MW series. As part of the agreement, Suzlon will supply the wind turbines (equipment supply) and supervise the project including commissioning. Suzlon will also undertake comprehensive operations and maintenance services post-commissioning.

Deepak Thakur, Managing Director and CEO, Mahindra Susten Pvt. Ltd. said, "At Mahindra Susten, we are committed to shaping a sustainable and carbon neutral India. We are delighted to partner with Suzlon, a leading renewable energy solutions provider with reliable technology and a great track record in India. Suzlon's 'Made-in-India' products complement our ideology of supporting 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. We look forward to creating many landmark IPP renewable energy projects in the future with a focus on increasing adoption of renewable energy in India."

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman, Suzlon Group said, "We are delighted to partner with Mahindra Susten, for their first wind energy project. Indian conglomerates like the Mahindra Group are setting examples for corporate India towards embracing renewable energy and meeting India's national sustainability goals. Suzlon deeply shares the values of responsibility, larger good and nation building with Mahindra making this association even more special. This order for our highly successful S120 turbines goes a long way in demonstrating our technology strength through a comprehensive portfolio of proven wind energy technologies."

On receiving repeat order from a Nordic Energy Company, Girish Tanti said, "We are delighted to partner again with the leading Nordic Energy Company. As India's renewable energy ambition sets benchmarks across the world, we are honored to welcome reputed global companies to the Indian market and stand committed to partnering with them every step of the way. A visionary policy environment, a robust domestic market and thriving local supply chain makes India an extremely lucrative renewable energy market for investors and utilities. The Suzlon 3 MW series is the next stage evolution of our proven technology, customized for the Indian wind regime and 3.15 MW is one of the largest wind turbines in the country today."

Suzlon Secures A Repeat Order of 193.2 MW from The KP Group in Gujarat

• To supply 92 wind turbines with a rated capacity of 2.1 MW each
• Project with a total installed capacity of 193.2 MW to be completed at Vagra and Vilayat in Bharuch district of Gujarat
• This will be part of Wind-Solar Hybrid and STU's (State Transmission Utility) tariff based project for increasing Renewable Energy contribution in the state
• A project of this size can provide electricity to ~1.25 lakh households and curb ~4.96 lakh tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.

Suzlon Group, India's largest renewable energy solutions provider, has announced a new order win for the development of a 193.2 MW wind power project for The KP Group. This will be part of Wind-Solar Hybrid and STU's (State Transmission Utility) tariff-based project for increasing Renewable Energy contribution in the state of Gujarat. Suzlon will supply 92 units of their S120 - 2.1 MW wind turbine generators (WTGs) with a 140m Hybrid Lattice Tubular (HLT) tower at Vagra and Vilayat in Bharuch district of Gujarat.

Suzlon will execute the project with a scope of supply, supervision, and commissioning. Additionally, Suzlon will also undertake post-commissioning operation and maintenance services.

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman, Suzlon Group said, "With an extremely conducive policy environment offered by Gujarat, this order from The KP Group is a testament of India Inc's commitment to building a sustainable India. It is heartening to see the private sector step up to the task with such enthusiasm, especially through the C&I segment that will help MSME to become globally competitive by switching to green power."

JP Chalasani, Chief Executive Officer, Suzlon Group said, "We are delighted to announce a repeat order from The KP Group. The KP Group has been a long-standing player in renewable energy and has consistently worked towards increasing renewable energy installations in the country. Suzlon takes pride in the fact that committed customers like The KP Group continue to select our leading technology and comprehensive capabilities throughout the entire wind energy value chain. The power generated from this project will inter-alia serve the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) consumer segment and the people of Gujarat with clean, green, renewable power. Suzlon is committed to partner with increasing number of Indian industries, driving them toward their net-zero targets while powering the nation with sustainable energy."

Every Suzlon turbine is manufactured in the country through a thriving domestic value chain ecosystem which is a testament to our contribution to the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Dr. Farukbhai Gulambhai Patel, Chairman and Managing Director, KP Group said, "This project is in line with our goal to unlock India's renewable energy potential and power the commercial and industrial sectors and the people of Gujarat. As India's leading renewable energy solutions provider with proven technology, Suzlon is the right partner for us. We have had a long and fruitful association with Suzlon in the past using their cost-effective Made-in-India solutions to create an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. With nearly three decades of serving India with renewable energy The KP Group is focussed on increasing its green energy footprint in India helping our customers' power their growth and electricity requirements with clean energy."

Suzlon turbines feature the time tested Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) technology that efficiently integrates wind turbines into the utility network to meet the grid requirements. Suzlon's R&D efforts are continuously geared towards increasing turbine performance, harnessing more energy from low wind sites, and lowering the cost of energy.

About The KP Group

The KP Group was founded by Dr. Farukbhai Gulambhai Patel in 1994 which is now well recognized group of Gujarat. What started as a logistics service provider in 1994 is now a group with a combined turnover of around Rs. 12 Billion with 1GW commissioned in Renewable projects.

The Group has completed more than 28 years of its successful operations and today consists of several group of companies, all contributing to the fast and robust growth of the group. During the last decade the group has achieved phenomenal growth as a result of diversification into fabrication and galvanizing, renewable energy sector (Solar & Wind) and Telecom infrastructure. Major Group Entities include, KPI Green Energy Limited, KP Energy Limited, KP Green Engineering Pvt Limited, and KP Human Development Foundation.

The Group has leveraged rapid industrialization and economic progress of the country by developing business in renewable energy sector (Solar & Wind). KP Group has successfully completed Initial Public Offer in both Solar and Wind renewable energy. The flagship companies of the KP Group, KPI Green Energy Limited is listed on Main Board Platform BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited and KP Energy Limited is listed on Main Board Platform of BSE Limited.

About The Suzlon Group

The Suzlon Group is one of the leading renewable energy solutions providers in the world with ~20.3 GW* of wind energy capacity installed across 17 countries. Headquartered at Suzlon One Earth in Pune, India; the Group comprises of Suzlon Energy Limited (NSE: SUZLON & BSE: 532667) and its subsidiaries. A vertically integrated organisation, with in-house research and development (R&D) centres in Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and India, Suzlon's world-class manufacturing facilities are spread across 14 locations in India. With over 28 years of operational track record, the Group has a diverse workforce of over 6,000 employees. Suzlon is also India's No. 1 wind energy service company with the largest service portfolio of over 14.3 GW in wind energy assets. The Group has ~6 GW of installed capacity outside India. Suzlon offers a comprehensive product portfolio led by the 2 MW and 3 MW series of wind turbines.

**Global installations of Suzlon manufactured wind turbine generators. Data as on 30th September 2023

Ahead of COP27, WRI India hosts Accelerating Clean Energy 2022

With partner NIIF, launches paper ‘Winds of Change: Learnings for the Indian Offshore Wind Energy Sector In India’

Initiates dialogue on scaling offshore wind and renewable energy, besides solar, in India

Mr. Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairman, Central Electricity Authority: Commercial and Industrial (C&I) consumers must consume renewables to attain the green tag

Winds of Change: Learnings for the Indian Offshore Wind Energy Sector, a working paper examining the potential of scaling offshore wind as rapidly as solar energy in India, was jointly launched by the World Resources Institute (WRI) India and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), today. The launch was part of a two-day annual event Accelerating Clean Energy in India, or ACE 2022, organized by WRI India in the national capital, to build a dialogue on the fast-changing energy landscape of the country.

Weeks before the United Nations Convention on Climate Change, or COP as it is popularly known, meets in Sharm-El-Shaikh in Egypt, leaders across the energy sector emphasized the need to enhance India’s share of renewable energy, both to mitigate climate change and to attain energy security at ACE 2022.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairman, Central Electricity Authority said, “India must focus on energy security, energy independence and energy reliability to the consumers, even while focusing on energy transition.” He further said “Commercial and Industrial (C&I) have an opportunity to consume renewables to attain the green tag. Green power, however, has its own set of challenges in terms of its availability, intermittency and accessibility.”

In a message shared with the delegates, Ms. Vandana Kumar IAS, Additional Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), said India is on the cusp of an energy transition. She said, “India stands fourth in renewable energy (RE) installed capacity today. The RE capacity tripled over the last eight years, while solar has increased by 25 times. But we are not resting on our laurels. We have achieved this due to a bouquet of curated policy and program efforts, and structural changes.”

One of ACE 2022’s focus was to discuss the growth of renewables other than solar. Recent advancements in offshore wind technology could enable it to become cheaper, and possibly viable for larger swathes of global populations. In India, waters off the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu alone hold over 70 GW of wind energy capacities. The working paper analyzed how offshore wind can play a prominent role in India’s energy transition, especially given the country’s target of 500 GW RE by 2030 across different technologies.

Moderating a panel discussion on offshore wind energy, Ms. Kajol, Senior Manager, Energy Program, WRI India, who is also one of the authors of the working paper said, “Contracting certainties, possible offshore wind purchase obligations and creative financing models are required to enable offshore wind energy attain economies of scale. Updating and improving the 2015 National Offshore Wind Energy Policy could serve as a foundation for this sector.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. Jarnail Singh, Deputy Director, MacArthur Foundation India, said, “Global philanthropy is focusing on ensuring the world’s vulnerable communities overcome extreme weather events. We have already begun to face them and transitioning to cleaner forms of energy is a vital component to mitigate climate change. India’s leadership in achieving this transition, which is also just and equitable, will doubtless be an anchor for the global economy and society.”

Other sessions at ACE included a discussion on ways to improve the role of states’ RE agencies in India’s energy transition. Panelists recalled the early days of the renewables sector, and the vital role the government played by setting up State Nodal Agencies almost a decade ago, when nascent RE technologies were being piloted across the country in diverse settings. But they also impressed upon a shift in their role and focus required for these agencies to better serve the needs of the RE sector that has rapidly evolved.

Recollecting ACE’s history and purpose, Mr. Bharath Jairaj, Executive Director, Energy Program, WRI India, said, “ACE was conceived as a space to discuss ongoing and emerging research streams on global energy transitions, and their implications on India. In its third edition after a break during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, we at WRI India are looking forward to these discussions and much more, to ensure India lives up to its pledges on carbon neutrality, renewables, and Sustainable Development Goals.”

Day two of ACE 2022 would include sessions on creating effective finance models for newer forms of renewables technology, like Distributed Renewable Energy, or DRE; pathways to deep decarbonize heavy industries, and tools that power distribution companies could use to effectively handle the impending surge in energy demand from electric vehicles on their grids.

About WRI India

WRI India is a research organization with experts and staff who work closely with leaders to turn big ideas into action to sustain a healthy environment – the foundation of economic opportunity and human well-being. We envision an equitable and prosperous planet driven by the wise management of natural resources. We aspire to create a world where the actions of government, business and communities combine to eliminate poverty and sustain the natural environment for all people.

Suzlon Energy Opens its Rights Issue

Suzlon Energy Limited, one of India’s top manufacturers in the wind component manufacturing segment as per capacity, and one of the top renewable O&M service providers in India, has opened its rights issue to raise up to Rs. 1,200 crore, on October 11, 2022. The entitlement ratio for the rights issue is 5:21 (five shares for every twenty one equity shares held by eligible shareholders of the Company, as on the record date of October 4, 2022).

With a footprint across 17 countries spread over six continents, Suzlon Energy has the largest wind installed base as a wind energy OEM, with approximately 13.45 GW of installed capacity in India as at June 30, 2022. It contributes towards nearly 33% of India’s wind installed base. It is also the largest wind O&M service provider in India, in terms of capacity. The Company also has an installed capacity of approximately 5.96 GW outside India, aggregating to a global installed capacity of 19.44 GW.

Suzlon has 16 manufacturing facilities across India in strategic locations, to manufacture forging and foundry components that are required for the manufacture of Wind Turbine Generators and their components. The Company already has an order book of 700MW in place for execution. Due to its established track record over 27 years and vertically integrated low-cost supply chain, Suzlon has relationships with several customers, including large independent power producers, public sector undertakings and marquee institutions.

The Company expects growth to be driven by the Commercial & Industrial (C&I) segment, which is gaining strong momentum due to wind energy being critical for high PLF projects. In addition, the emergence of hybrid (solar + wind) power also is a key driver, as most of the customers and utilities prefer higher PLF and scheduled power availability. Finally, wind repowering is also expected to drive nearly 20GW of capacity till 2030, since existing wind capacities would need rebuilding. Government policies also bode well for the wind energy sector, amongst which is the in-principle decision to stop electronic reverse auction for wind power projects in India.

The Promoters and Promoter Group have re-confirmed their participation in the upcoming rights issue, and also declared that they will be fully subscribing to the extent of their rights entitlement. One of the significant investors in the Company, Mr Dilip Shanghvi has also confirmed his intention to fully participate in the rights issue with subscribing for additional shares, as per a disclosure filed with the stock exchanges. The rights issue does not have a minimal threshold of subscription; the Company will be able to use the proceeds raised through the rights issue irrespective of subscription level.

The proceeds of the rights issue will be used to reduce the outstanding debt of the Company, which in turn will strengthen the balance sheet, reduce interest cost outgo, and improve profitability. This in turn will also unlock working capital for the Company to further increase its project execution. As per the Letter of Offer, the Company currently has Rs. 3,272 crores of debt, part of which will be paid off using the proceeds of the rights issue.

Speaking on the development, Chairman and Managing Director Vinod R Tanti said, “Suzlon Energy has an established track record in the wind energy sector with more than 27 years of experience. We are one of India’s top manufacturers in the wind component manufacturing segment as per capacity and are one of the top renewable O&M service providers in India, as per capacity serviced. Our long history provides us with the network and strategic alliances that in-turn provide us access to diversified development projects across all of India’s wind resource rich states.”

Speaking on the development, Executive Vice Chairman Girish Tanti said, “Renewable capacity additions are likely to increase further to 95-100 GW over Fiscals 2023 to 2027, primarily due to environment-driven shift towards renewable generation, government support through favourable policies for domestic equipment manufacturing and renewable power offtake, growing participation from central generation companies in addition to existing private entities, and strong funding support. The overall installed capacity is expected to reach 520-525 GW by Fiscal 2027, supported by wind capacity growth at a CAGR of 9-10%. Suzlon Energy’s leading market share makes it well-positioned to leverage its reputation and existing customer relationships to take advantage of anticipated future growth in demand for renewable energy sources.”

Suzlon also aims to continue to improve its financial position through its liability management program, and through the sale of non-core assets. The Company is also seeking to achieve greater operational efficiencies and reduce fixed cost by: (i) focusing on sale of WTG in the Indian market; (ii) reorganising its various business divisions; (iii) developing new WTG models that are customised for the India market; (iv) expanding the O&M service business in India; and (v) optimized funding of working capital requirements.

New Study Alerts Investors in Solar/ Wind Energy As Climate Change Adversely Impacts The Future Trends

Climate change is expected to impact future renewable energy production, more specifically — Solar and Wind  —, and the potential of these green energies over the Indian landmass are likely to face a negative trend in coming times and it is due to climate change, said a new study by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), an autonomous scientific institute based in Pune, that engages in expanded research in the tropical Indian Ocean with special reference to monsoon meteorology, and air-sea interaction of South Asian climate.

Among various renewable energy components, wind and solar, are sensitive to even small changes in atmospheric conditions and therefore, to climate change.

The study report highlights that investors in Solar & Wind Energy sector should understand and consider possible changes due to climate change. The study by IITM analyze the future wind and solar energy potential over the Indian landmass using climate model ensembles.

If the return of investments (RoI) during other seasons is not profitable, the dependence on renewable energy may be reduced, said the study titled 'Analysis of future wind and solar potential over India using climate models'.

Interesting to note that, IITM has one of the largest computational capacities of India as well as a supercomputer called 'Pratyush'. With IITM, India is the fourth country in the world to have a High-Performance Computing (HPC) facility dedicated to weather and climate research, after Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Regional analysis of wind potential indicates that the frequency of high energy producing wind speeds will decrease, whereas low energy producing wind speeds are likely to increase in the future. On the other hand, solar radiation is estimated to decrease (10–15 Wm–2) over the next 50 years during all seasons.

With the estimated decrease in future wind and solar energy potential, expanded and more efficient networks of wind and solar farms are needed to increase renewable energy production.

Wind Energy

Climate change can induce inter-annual variations that affect wind dependence over existing and future energy grids.

India mainly receives majority of its wind energy during the southwest monsoon and solar energy during the pre-monsoon season. Previous climatic analysis has reported that the wind potential over India is likely to be affected because of the Indian Ocean warming.

In future, seasonal and annual wind speed is likely to decrease over North India and increase along South India, said the study titled 'Analysis of future wind and solar potential over India using climate models'.

The researchers used state-of-the-art climate models devised by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to analyze the wind and solar projections for the renewable energy sector over the Indian subcontinent.

Regional analysis of wind potential indicates that the frequency of high energy producing wind speeds will decrease, whereas low energy producing wind speeds are likely to increase in the future.

The southern coast of Odisha and the southern Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu show promising potential for wind energy in the climate change scenario.

Solar Energy

The Indian subcontinent receives maximum solar radiation during the pre-monsoon months and minimum during the winter months. As per latest report, India added 513 MW of solar open access capacity in Q1 2022, which is 58% higher quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) compared to 324 MW installed in Q4 2021. 

Solar projections for the future indicate that solar radiation will decrease during all seasons over most of the Indian landmass. For future investments in the solar power sector, central and south-central India must be considered during pre-monsoon months, as the potential loss is minimal in these regions.

As per the study, which used climate model CORDEX for simulations, an increase in solar radiation along southern India is observed, whereas the rest of the country did not show any significant variations.

North-western India, where the maximum number of solar farms are located, showed reduced future projections of solar radiation throughout the year, except for the pre-monsoon months.

The only regions which showed an increase in future solar projections were Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

The future solar radiation would reduce all over the country. Western India showed less variations during the prominent solar potential months of pre-monsoon, while eastern India showed reduction in solar radiation throughout the year.

It is to be noted that there are innovations in solar panels components, where the panel does not need direct sunlight and can produce electricity even when not facing much of the sun.

For Investors

Cost reduction for new wind farms and solar fields has made drastic changes in the investment in recent years. Studies that examine the possible changes in wind and solar potential over the Indian region are limited in the literature.

As climate change is expected to impact both wind and solar potential in the future, there is a requirement for proper documentation of the results from climate model simulations. This will help the investors in this sector to carefully plan their investments, which are expected to significantly increase in the next 30–40 years in the Indian region.

For future investments in the solar power sector, central and south-central India must be considered during pre-monsoon months, as the potential loss is minimum in these regions.

GWEC to Launch GWEC India to Help Develop India's Vast Wind Power Potential and Support Green Recovery

- The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) will establish GWEC India and designate Sumant Sinha , Chairman and MD of ReNew Power as the organisation's first Chairperson.

- GWEC India will work closely with government, stakeholders, companies and adjacent technologies to accelerate the momentum around wind power development in India and support the country in achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets.

- India is the world's fourth-largest onshore wind market by installations, however significant challenges need to be addressed to accelerate market growth and help India meet its wind energy target by 2022.

- Plans to establish India as a cost-competitive manufacturing hub for renewable energy could be an important driver of a green recovery, and GWEC India will help create long-term market visibility is needed to realise this ambition.

- India is the third-largest carbon emitter in the world, making it crucial to grow wind power generation to decarbonise the energy system and support international efforts to keep global warming within 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. 

CHENNAI, India , Nov. 27, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) announced that they will establish GWEC India to work with government and stakeholders to renew momentum around wind power development and support India in achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets. The new industry association will focus on building out India's huge potential and local supply capacity, addressing regulatory bottlenecks, sharing best international practices and experience and facilitating dialogue and cooperation between government and industry stakeholders.

India is the world' s fourth-largest onshore wind market by cumulative installations with nearly 38 GW of capacity. The government has set an ambitious target of 175 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2022, which calls for current wind capacity to nearly double within the next two years, totaling 60 GW of onshore wind and 5 GW of offshore wind. GWEC estimates that India risks undershooting its 2022 wind energy target if urgent issues are not addressed.

According to GWEC' s Q3 2020 Market Outlook, the impacts of COVID-19 combined with market challenges in India will likely bring down onshore wind installations by 6.1 GW in the next five years compared to pre-COVID forecasts, a reduction of 29 per cent. Looking to offshore wind, India has huge potential, but development of the industry has so far been slow.

Despite these challenges, the Indian government maintains its ambitious targets and recognises the role that wind power can play in a green economic recovery from COVID-19. In order to foster and sustain market growth, GWEC India will be a key partner for both the government and industry to resolve current challenges and tap into the economic benefits of wind power.

Sumant Sinha , Chairman and Managing Director of ReNew Power , commented: " Wind energy kickstarted the renewable energy revolution in India , and today, with over 38 GW of installed capacity, India is the fourth largest wind power market in the world. The sector has also been a torch bearer of ' Aatmanirbharta' , as most of the equipment for the wind energy sector is manufactured domestically. Wind power has helped India mitigate around 50.87 million tonnes of CO2 in the past two years and will be a big contributor to India meeting its decarbonisation goals under the Paris Agreement. The time is now ripe to accelerate growth and create a framework for government-industry partnership to tackle the challenges being faced by the sector. GWEC India will be an indispensable platform for policymakers and the industry to come together and turn these ambitions into reality, and I am thrilled to be part of this important initiative."

Ben Backwell , CEO of GWEC , added: " With over 300 GW of onshore wind potential and a further 195 GW of offshore wind potential, we have only begun to scratch the surface of India ' s wind power capability. GWEC has a proven track record working with stakeholders to address regulatory barriers and unlock growth potential in emerging markets across the world, and we are looking forward to doing the same with GWEC India. As the government looks to establish the country as a renewable energy manufacturing hub, it will be essential that we have long-term market visibility in order to bring in investors and encourage development of a local industry. This is more important than ever as the industry can be a critical driver of jobs and investment, while delivering low-cost power to energy-intensive industries, to power an economic recovery from COVID-19."

Sumant Sinha , has been designated as the Chair of GWEC India, which will be supported by a local office and GWEC team. The association will leverage the expertise of GWEC' s global network to draw from international best practices, publish market analysis and support policymakers in shaping a sustainable wind sector. Key challenges addressed by GWEC India will include grid and land availability, off-taker risks, onerous tender conditions, low tariff caps and offshore wind development.

Find out more about GWEC India here .

About GWEC

GWEC is a member-based organization that represents the entire wind energy sector. The members of GWEC represent over 1,500 companies, organizations and institutions in more than 80 countries, including manufacturers, developers, component suppliers, research institutes, national wind and renewables associations, electricity providers, finance and insurance companies. See https://gwec.net/

For more information, please contact:
Alyssa Pek
Alyssa.pek@gwec.net

Anatomy of a Wind Turbine: The Eco-Friendly Power Solution

We imagine your first encounter with a wind turbine was through the window of your car as you zip down a remote highway. Wind turbines are unforgettable because of their large and impressive stature and are emblematic of the widespread global adoption of this power source as a means to generate more sustainable energy solutions for communities.

India has been at the forefront of renewable energy revolution and has emerged as the one of the world's largest and most competitive markets for clean energy innovations. Wind power saw a stable growth in the country over the past few decades, and India currently ranks fourth in the global wind energy capacity ranking.

Two IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) members, Pouyan Pourbeik and Nicholas Miller, explain how wind power technology works, and why it is so important.

What is a wind turbine?

In simplest terms, “a wind turbine is a mechanical machine that converts the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical rotational energy that can be used to do some work,” says Pourbeik.

Utilizing the natural resource, wind, as a source of energy production is not a new technological practice. In fact, wind turbines have been developed in various ways for several centuries. Pourbeik says that the first recorded wind turbine dates back to the seventh century in Iran and was used to grind grain and pump water from wells.

“Today’s modern wind turbines are used to run electrical machines that then convert the rotational mechanical energy into electrical energy that can serve the electrical needs of residential homes, commercial buildings and industry,” says Pourbeik.

How is wind power a sustainable technology?

Wind turbines are sustainable because of the power conversion process; by tapping into the wind, the process is cleaner than having to mine or burn material that creates massive amounts of emissions as a result. Wind energy is a solution to reducing those carbon emissions, eliminating other forms of pollution in the air, and eventually moving away from traditional methods that have the opposite effect on our planet.

Another benefit of wind power is that this source of energy is free and bountiful. “When I lecture on wind turbine basics, I often start with the statement ‘a wind turbine is a device that converts the kinetic energy in wind/moving air into money’,” says Miller. “The fact that there is electric power generated is incidental."

“You can’t afford to build a wind turbine that captures all of the available energy all the time,” says Miller.

What are the challenges of wind energy?

Every technology comes with its own set of challenges that engineers are equipped to solve. Integration into pre-existing power grids and gaining general public awareness of the technology as a sustainable tool are the current hurdles Pourbeik and Miller face as power engineers.

“There are challenges with engineering such systems and reliably integrating them into the world-wide electric infrastructure — but that is what makes the current technical environment in the field of power and energy engineering so exciting,” says Pourbeik.

One of those challenges to the energy grid is energy storage and reliability. Traditionally, when a customer demands electric power, the generation and the power grid is capable of meeting that demand. “But with the advent and explosive growth of wind and solar power, it is Mother Nature who decides when the electric power will be supplied, not the consumer,” says Miller.

“Since the birth of the electric power system in the late 19th and early 20th century, energy has been converted from mechanical energy to electrical energy through the use of rotating electrical machines, which are directly connected to the bulk power grid,” explains Pourbeik. “These conventional machines run at a constant speed, which means that the frequency of the electrical power they produce is also constant."

Because wind turbine speed is constantly changing due to the wind, power engineers must figure out a way to efficiently convert the wind energy to mechanical rotating energy. The solution is a rotating electrical machine connected to the wind turbine that runs at a wide range of speeds.

“So to interface the machine (running at different speeds) to the bulk electrical power system (which has a fixed frequency) one needs to use a power-electronic converter interface,” says Pourbeik. “Thus, the electrical behavior of the power generating device becomes very different as seen from the grid."

While power-electronic converters have been used in other ways, they have never been used at such a large scale as they are now to connect the heart of wind power plants to the grid. Over the last few decades, the power and energy industry has been learning how to utilize this technology in the most reliable way possible.

“Pouyan and I have worked through the first stages of the revolution,” says Miller. “Since the turn of the century, we have watched (and participated) as innovations in technology, markets, regulation and understanding have steadily moved the challenge out. Today, we (the U.S. and other world grids) regularly operate at levels of wind and solar generation that we thought would be nearly impossible or wouldn’t happen for decades into the future.”

IEEE PES and the renewable integration community have a large focus on how to make the grid work in a reliable, safe, clean and affordable fashion. But Pourbeik and Miller are hopeful about the future of sustainable energy and the technology being developed.

“We are continuing to move at an astonishing rate, adding innovations on all those fronts,” says Miller. “Very honestly, there has never been a better, more exciting time to be a power engineer.”