The Rise of Wind Energy in Rajasthan: A Complete Overview in 2024

Besides possessing one of the largest solar resources, the state of Rajasthan has the largest centres for the generation of wind power in the country. Before proceeding further, would you like to know that Rajasthan is one of the major states in India providing wind energy generation? Rajasthan emerged as the top state among all the states of India in implementing fresh wind power projects in the period of 2022-2023  when the states commissioned 867 MW wind power projects. Alright then, let’s get going. Now, let’s explore the wind energy scenario in Rajasthan.

Rajasthan’s Renewable Energy Landscape

The renewable energy sector has grown a lot in Rajasthan, with a total renewable energy capacity of 27,937.04 MW as of May 2024 , out of which The total wind energy installed in Rajasthan is 5,236 MW has helped in attracting major investment from favourable wind conditions in the state to progressive government policies. An increasing solar energy industry expands the position of the state as a key renewable energy-producing state of India. Among the biggest solar parks in the world is the one situated within the state, which includes the Bhadla Solar Park.

Rajasthan's Wind Energy Potential

Rajasthan has a great wind power potential of 284GW at 150m above ground level.  This power has taken root in some of the districts, including Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Barmer, and Bikaner.

Wind Speed Potential: The state benefits from optimal wind speeds throughout the year, especially during the non-monsoon season, and as a result, the state has the potential for wind power projects.

Availability of Land: There are a lot of untapped land areas in Rajasthan that will be ideal for hosting wind energy plants in Rajasthan, which will make the pace of project execution fast.

Grid Connectivity: The state’s power grid infrastructure is also gradually enhancing, helping to bring large-scale wind power systems.

Policy and Support: Government Initiatives in Wind Energy

Rajasthan Renewable Energy Policy, 2023

This policy’s target is to have 15 GW of combined wind-solar power generation capacity by 2030. As an enhancement, it contributes to the wind power projects to be offered for sale to the state distribution companies (DISCOMs) and for use within the state. The policy mandates DISCOMs to procure from renewable energy depending on the Renewable Purchase Obligation   RPO prescribed by the Rajasthan Electricity Regulatory Commission– RERC.

Rajasthan Wind and Hybrid Energy Policy, 2019

This policy aims to increase energy security and equity, reduce carbon emissions and pollution, and protect consumer interests. Manufacturers of wind equipment are 100% exempt from stamp duty. The land will be allotted at a 50% concessional rate, with a ten-year full exemption from electricity duty.

Generation Based Incentives (GBI)

This program provides Rs. 0.50/unit generated from wind power projects to projects that do not avail accelerated depreciation benefits.

Financial Support

The Indian Renewable   Energy Development Agency (IREDA) and other financial institutions offer loans for installing wind power projects. It is important to note that in 2022, the public finance infrastructure businesses Power Finance Corporation (PFC) and REC Limited lowered their lending rates by 40 basis points across the board. To stimulate the renewable energy sector, where long-term funding is needed, the corporations increased their lending rates for loans to renewable energy projects to 8.25%.

Incentives and Investments: Boosting Wind Energy Growth

Investor Interest: Both local and foreign investors are interested in investing in the wind power of the state by making bids.

Financial Incentives: This can be seen in various incentives and grants provided as a way of promoting wind energy projects.

Joint Ventures: Here, both local and international players are involved in promoting technology transfer and capacity development.

Impact and Future Prospects of Wind Energy in Rajasthan

The explosion of wind power in Rajasthan has far-reaching consequences:

Economic Development: Employing the jobless and opening their minds to new tricks that bring money into the local coffers.

Energy Security: Cutting your ties to coal and ensuring a smooth stream of juice.

Environmental Benefits: Helping stop greenhouse gases from rising high above all else and bringing an end to the damaging fossil fuels.

The future looks bright for winds blowing across Rajasthan. Indefatigably, technical improvements end up giving directions to its production systems even as laws enable them.

Why Sunsure Energy?

Sunsure Energy, one of the key players of the renewable energy market and a GMP client is set to transform Rajasthan into a green energy state. In our practice, we have gathered vast experience in the development, financing, and operation of wind energy projects, therefore providing full-fledged services to our clients.

Project Development: We identify suitable wind sites, conduct resource assessments, and obtain necessary permits.

Financing: We provide access to various financing options, including debt and equity, to support project implementation.

Operation and Maintenance: Our skilled team ensures optimal performance and maximises energy yield from wind farms.

Conclusion

The availability of resources, favourable policies, and investor interest have helped advance the Rajasthan sector. With the focus shifting towards providing a cleaner source for the generation of electricity, Rajasthan would emerge as a preferred destination for Wind Energy to add a strong base for India’s ‘Energy for All’ vision. This is the kind of change Sunsure Energy is a part of, and we are willing to continue engaging our stakeholders to make sure that the future of Rajasthan is sustainable.

FAQs

What is Rajasthan’s current wind energy capacity?

The number is subject to change, yet according to the latest statistics, the state had an installed wind power capacity of 284GW.

What are the major wind energy projects in Rajasthan?

Large windmill projects are located in Rajasthan. Some of the most prominent ones include:

Jaisalmer Wind Park: This 1,600 MW wind farm is one of the largest in the world and is located in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan.

Muppandal Wind Farm: This wind farm is located in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan and is India’s largest operational onshore wind farm.

These projects, in addition to a myriad of others, have placed Rajasthan right on the edge of India’s wind power map.

What incentives are available for wind energy projects in Rajasthan?

The government is supporting wind energy projects throughout the country through private sector participation by offering various fiscal and financial incentives, including Accelerated Depreciation benefits and concessional custom duty exemptions for some parts of wind electric generators.

Such incentives, coupled with wind resources available in the state, are some of the reasons that help increase wind energy.