Offshore wind to meet increasing energy demands in India

Abstract

Offshore wind provides a scalable alternative to conventional energy resources. It can be a potential source to meet the increasing energy demand in developing countries like India, for which an attractive policy framework is required. The aim of this study is to provide an insight for evolving onshore wind policy in India and suggest suitable strategies for development of offshore wind sector. Various wind resource maps were reviewed and potential sites identified as Rameswaram and Kanyakumari along Tamil Nadu coast. Suitability analysis was conducted to identify the type of wind turbine recommended at potential sites to achieve high plant load factor, considering the uncertainty in wind speeds. Commercial viability studies were carried out to identify appropriate incentives for development of offshore wind sector in India. Results indicate a levelized cost of energy of Rs 10.8 and Rs 9.6/Kwh at Rameswaram and Kanyakumari for an internal rate of return of 14%.