India's up to 4,228 MW of wind according to the government's latest count, and is on its way to becoming a 1.5 GW/year market rivalling Spain. This is a big developing country success story, as India serves as a key model for implementing wind both in terms of meeting power demand with clean energy, and creating local industry. India is evolving as a key manufacturing hub for major turbine manufacturers operating in Asia including home grown Suzlon, as well as Vestas, Gamesa, and Enercon.
What is also commendable about India is that it has improved its policy to foster growth despite a flawed beginning. In the 1990s wind farms serving as corporate tax shelters with little production requirements had capacity factors of under 20% - now they are aiming for an average of 25% by 2011-2012. As it should be done, the government's policy focuses on ensuring quality projects by taking a more pro-active role in siting wind farms, providing tools to developers for assessing wind resource, and streamlining the permitting process. Brazil, with a 1,100 MW wind goal, should take a cue from India.
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