Q14.Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread.

Wind energy is crucial for India's clean energy transition and achieving its ambitious renewable energy targets, playing a pivotal role in diversifying the energy mix and reducing carbon emissions.

India possesses substantial onshore wind potential, estimated at 302 GW at 100m and 695 GW at 120m hub height, with emerging offshore prospects. Key states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh hold the highest potential due to favorable wind regimes.

Despite this, its spatial spread is limited by: resource variability, land acquisition challenges, grid integration and transmission infrastructure issues, high initial capital costs, environmental concerns (noise, bird mortality), and regulatory hurdles.

Government initiatives like the National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy, offshore wind policy, and ISTS charges waiver, coupled with technological advancements and robust transmission, are vital to overcome these limitations.

Harnessing wind energy is strategically important for India's energy security, climate commitments, and sustainable development, necessitating concerted efforts for its widespread and efficient deployment.