The Union Cabinet has greenlit India’s inaugural 1 GW offshore wind energy projects, split between Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, with a Rs 7,453 crore investment. This landmark initiative aims to generate 3.72 billion units of renewable electricity annually, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.
The Union Cabinet has approved India’s first offshore wind energy projects, totaling 1 GW, with an investment of Rs 7,453 crore. These projects, with 500 MW each off the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, were announced by Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The successful commissioning of these projects will generate around 3.72 billion units of renewable electricity annually, reducing CO2 emissions by 2.98 million tons per year over 25 years.
The government has allocated Rs 6,853 crore for the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme, aimed at making these offshore wind projects viable by reducing power costs. Additionally, Rs 600 crore will be used to upgrade two ports to support offshore wind energy logistics. This initiative aligns with the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy of 2015, designed to harness India’s offshore wind potential.
Private developers will execute the projects through a transparent bidding process, while Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) will handle power evacuation infrastructure, including offshore substations. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways will support two ports to accommodate offshore wind development needs.
Offshore wind energy offers several benefits over onshore wind and solar projects, such as higher reliability, lower storage requirements, and increased employment potential. This move marks a significant step towards expanding India’s renewable energy capabilities and reducing its carbon footprint.
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