India Achieves Record 6.05 GW Wind Energy Capacity in FY26, Surpassing Previous Records
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, April 6 (NationPress) - The government announced on Monday that India has reached a historic milestone by adding an unprecedented 6.05 GW of wind energy capacity in FY26. This achievement surpasses the previous record of 5.5 GW established in FY 2016-17.This signifies a remarkable increase of approximately 46 percent compared to the capacity added in FY25, indicating a significant acceleration in India's onshore wind energy deployment.
“With this expansion, India’s total installed wind power capacity has exceeded 56 GW. This achievement showcases a renewed momentum within the sector, driven by enhanced policy clarity, readiness in transmission, competitive tariff discovery, and a robust project pipeline,” stated the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
India's wind energy sector has witnessed steady growth. The government has introduced various initiatives to support the industry, including a Concessional Custom Duty on specific components and raw materials for wind turbine manufacturing, a graded Waiver of Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) charges until June 2028, competitive bidding processes, dedicated Wind Renewable Consumption Obligation (RCO) frameworks, and technical assistance from the National Institute of Wind Energy.
This record capacity addition significantly strengthens India's renewable energy framework and supports the nation's goal of achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy capacity by 2030.
India’s wind energy initiative began in the early 1990s as part of the comprehensive renewable energy strategy of the government.
Over the past thirty years, India has established a robust wind energy ecosystem and a comprehensive policy framework to enhance grid-connected wind power projects, as indicated by the ministry.
This milestone is a testament to consistent policy backing, improved project implementation, and enhanced pipeline maturity across key wind-producing states.
“States like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Maharashtra have played a pivotal role in the capacity addition throughout the year, supported by a growing pipeline of wind-solar hybrid projects and the progressive implementation of green energy open access,” the ministry added.