India’s Wind Energy Generation Touched New Record in Q3 ‘17

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): The latest output statistics released by the Indian Ministry suggest significant jump in wind energy generation by the country during Q3 this year. When compared with the previous quarter, the country reported 35% jump in production. The record jump in output is mainly attributed to robust monsoon winds and the notable increase in installed capacity during the quarter. It must be noted that the installed capacity surged higher by 14% over the past one-year period.

The country generated 21.3 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of wind energy in Q3 this year. This is notably higher when compared with the 15.8 GWh generated during the quarter prior to this. The share of wind energy in total power (generated as well as imported) increased from 5.4% in Q3 last year to 6.4% in Q3 ’17. Also, the share of wind energy in total renewable energy generation edged higher from 61.8% in Q3 2016 to 67.9% in Q3 this year.

In the month of July, the share of wind energy in total power (generated as well as imported) had touched record high of 8.9%. Also, the share of wind energy in total renewable energy generation had hit an all-time high of 76.2%. The country’s wind generation had totaled 9.8 GWh during the month of July alone.

According to estimates, the country is expected to add additional capacity of nearly 10 Gwh by mid-2018. The capacity additions are likely to remain subdued in 2018. Research done by ratings agency ICRA points out that bidding activity for wind and solar energy projects in the country has witnessed significant slowdown during 2017. As a result, the sector may face near tern headwinds. The new requirement which mandates setting up of projects through competitive bidding may impact capacity additions, ICRA noted.