The announcement concerning the plans for the new agency was made by the Indian Minister for New and Renewable Agency, Dr.Farooq Abdullah, during a day-long “National Level Consultation on National Wind Energy Mission” in Delhi.
During his speech, Dr Abdullah said that the potential for generating power through wind energy in offshore areas was immense and that the Ministry will approach the Union Cabinet soon for a decision on the matter. Dr Abdullah also expressed hope that the Finance Ministry will restore the benefits of Accelerated Depreciation for Wind Power Producers in the Interim Budget to be presented next month.
The consultation was organised by the Ministery to discuss the need and scope for a National Wind Energy Mission which would work towards improving the investment climate by resolving issues associated with resource potential, land availability, grid connectivity, clearance procedure and zoning. The initiative is part of the Ministry’s efforts to address challenges facing the Indian wind power sector and bring together all stakeholders on a common platform with the aim of developing wind power in the country in a coordinated and concerted manner. The consultation was attended by industry representatives, state electricity regulators, State and Central Government officials and research and development experts.
Earlier, speaking on the occasion, Dr. S.B. Agnihotri, Secretary, MNRE highlighted the importance of setting up an Evacuation Infrastructure and short-term large scale Storage Facilities for the renewable energy. He also stressed on the need for making available long term finance at reasonable rate for the wind power producers.
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