Technology

An Insight Into The Evolution of Wind Energy

We are all baffled by the huge windmills when we drive across wind fields. If you live near Mundra, Gujarat, we bet you have at least taken a selfie with the biggest wind turbine in India. Did you know? With blades larger than a Boeing 747’s wingspan, it stands 200 metres. A height taller than the Statue of Unity, which is the world’s tallest statue at 182 metres.

Just like you are now amazed by these huge wind turbines, people in older times were astonished when wind energy was in the initial stage. Read along to dive into the history and see how wind energy companies in India are playing a role in shaping renewable energy nationwide. 

Tracing the Origins of Wind Energy and Windmills

While the concept of renewable energy often seems like a recent development, the roots of wind energy can be traced back much further than expected. Surprisingly, the first windmills date back to 500 AD, as archaeologists discovered panemone windmills. 

Initially, these structures, adorned with sails fixed around a central column, were perceived more as decorative objects than practical power sources. However, by the 12th century, wind energy began to take on a more functional role in Europe. Mills were utilized to grind grain and move water, marking a significant shift towards harnessing wind power for practical purposes.

The Emergence of the First Modern Turbine

The real breakthrough in wind turbine technology occurred in 1887 when Scottish Engineer Professor James Blyth pioneered the development of wind turbines. Professor Blyth successfully powered lights in his home by setting up upwind sails in his garden and utilising accumulators developed by Frenchman Camille Faure. Although his offer to power his neighbours’ houses wasn’t widely accepted then, this marked the beginning of the modern era of wind power.

Modern Turbines in India

The journey of wind power in India commenced in December 1952 when power engineer Maneklal Sankalchand Thacker initiated a project with the Indian Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to explore harnessing wind power. 

The real turning point came in 1986 when the first wind farms, equipped with 55 kW Vestas wind turbines, were established in coastal areas of Maharashtra (Ratnagiri), Gujarat (Okha), and Tamil Nadu (Tuticorin).

Wind Energy in Contemporary India

Fast forward to the present, and India’s wind energy sector is experiencing an unprecedented surge. As of 30th June 2023, the installed capacity stands at an impressive 43,773 megawatts, according to RK Singh, Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy and Power. 

With the help of the government and private wind energy companies in India, like Ampin Energy Transition, the country’s focus on renewable energy sources led to a huge 71,814 million units of power being made from wind energy during the fiscal year 2022–23.

In response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Minister Singh stated, “The installed wind energy generation capacity of the country was 43,773 MW, as of 30th June 2023. During FY 2022-23, the country’s electricity generated from wind energy was 71,814 million units.” Furthermore, the estimated installed capacity by the end of the year 2029-30 is an ambitious 99,895 MW.

Private Sector Leading the Charge in Renewable Energy Production

Among India’s notable renewable energy providers is AmpIn Energy Transition, positioned as the country’s Leading Renewable Energy Transition Platform. With a portfolio exceeding 3 GWp, and a goal to reach 10 GW by 2030, AmpIn Energy Transition has emerged as a key player in the transition to renewable energy.

Boasting a diverse clientele spanning sectors such as Automobiles, Heavy Engineering, FMCG, Cement and Steel, Pharma and Healthcare, Data Centres, and Government institutions, AmpIn Energy Transition has played a pivotal role in facilitating the transition to renewable energy for numerous consumers. 

India’s journey in harnessing wind power has been marked by significant milestones, with the private sector playing a crucial role in driving the transition to renewable energy. As we stand on the brink of a future powered by renewable energy providers, India’s continued growth of wind energy paints a promising picture for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

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