(a) the details of the potential of wind power generation in the country, State-wise;
(b) the actual utilization of the potential of wind power in the country, State-wise;
(c) whether wind power generation is much cheaper and non-pollutant; and
(d) if so, the cost of generation per unit and the capital investment required to install such a power plant?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR NON-CONVENTIONAL ENERGY SOURCES (SHRI M. KANNAPPAN)
(a)&(b): The gross wind power potential in the country has been estimated at about 45,000 MW. The technical potential, which can be tapped at present is, however, about 13,000 MW. A total wind power capacity of 1628 MW has so far been installed in the country. A Statement on the gross and technical potential, and installed capacity, State-wise, is given in the Annexure.
(c)&(d): The generation of power from wind is non-polluting and environmentally benign. The levelised cost of wind power generation compares favourably with cost of conventional power, taking into account various fiscal and promotional incentives available for wind power projects. The capital cost of wind power varies between Rs.4.5 crore to Rs.5 crore per MW, and the cost of generation ranges between Rs.2.25- Rs.2.75 per unit depending upon the site.
ANNEXURE
Annexure referred to in reply to parts (a) & (b) of Lok Sabha Unstarred Question No. 776 for 18th July, 2002.
STATE-WISE GROSS AND TECHNICAL POTENTIAL & WIND POWER INSTALLED CAPACITY (AS ON 31.03.2002)
S.No. State Gross Potential Technical Total (MW) Potential (MW) installed Capacity(MW)
1. Andhra Pradesh 8275 1750 92
2. Gujarat 9675 1780 167
3. Karnataka 6620 1120 69
4. Kerala 875 605 2
5. Madhya Pradesh 5500 825 23 6. Maharashtra 3650 3020 399
7 Orissa 1700 680
8. Rajasthan 5400 895 16
9. Tamil Nadu 3050 1750 857 10. West Bengal 450 450 1 11. Others 2
Total 45195 12875 1628