Wind energy has been harnessed for centuries to power ships and grind grain. Today, wind turbines are a mature technology used to generate electricity on a large scale. India has a vast coastline and significant wind resources, making it a prime location for wind energy development. The country has set ambitious targets for wind energy capacity and is working to become a global leader in this renewable energy source. As of 2022, India's total installed wind power capacity is over 47,362 MW.
The Top 5 Wind Farms in India (based on installed generation capacity) are,
1. Muppandal Wind Farm, Tamil Nadu: 1,500 MW (1986)
Developed by the Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency (TEDA) in 1986, the Muppandal Wind Farm boasts an impressive capacity of 1,500 MW. Located in the southern tip of India, in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, it is among the earliest commercial wind power projects in the country. Tamil Nadu accounts for nearly one-fourth of India’s installed wind energy capacity, owing to the strategic coastal location.
*Satellite Image, November 2024
2. Jaisalmer Wind Park, Rajasthan: 1,064 MW (2012)
The Jaisalmer Wind Park, a massive 3,000-hectare project in Rajasthan, began operations in 2012. Developed by Suzlon Energy, it comprises multiple wind farms like Amarsagar, Badabaug, and Baramsar, collectively generating 1,064 MW of clean energy. This substantial power output is sufficient to electrify 6,000 households, making a significant contribution to India's renewable energy landscape.
*Satellite Image, November 2024
3. Brahmanvel Wind Farm, Maharashtra: 547 MW
Located in Dhule, Maharashtra, the Brahmanvel Wind Farm is a significant contributor to India's renewable energy landscape. With an installed capacity of 547 MW, this wind farm, owned and managed by Parakh Agro Industries, is a testament to Maharashtra's substantial wind energy potential.
*Satellite Image, November 2024
4. Dhalgaon Wind Farm, Maharashtra: 277 MW
Another large wind farm in Maharashtra is the Dhalgaon Wind Farm. The state’s geographically significant location – with the lofty Western Ghats passing through the coastal state – has allowed it to contribute 11% of India’s total installed wind power capacity. The-277 MW-strong Dhalgaon Wind Park was developed by Gadre Marine Exports in Sangli district. It deploys turbines from renowned manufacturers Suzlon and Enercon.
*Satellite Image, November 2024
5. Vankusawade Wind Park, Maharashtra: 242 MW
Perched on a 1,150-metre high plateau near Satara, Maharashtra, the Vankusawade Wind Park harnesses the strong winds of the region. Equipped with Suzlon S33/350 turbines, this wind farm has an installed capacity of 242 MW. Its strategic location is close to the Koyna reservoir, making it part of Maharashtra's clean energy hub.
*Satellite Image, November 2024