The Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) today launched the “Supply Chain, Port Infrastructure and Logistics Study” report for offshore wind development in the states of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu in India.
The study is a significant step forward in preparing a roadmap for offshore wind power in India by the FOWIND consortium, GWEC said.
The key supply chain elements of the offshore wind sector are assessed along with a preliminary evaluation of companies entering the offshore wind sector. As part of the supply chain assessment, port infrastructure and logistics are reviewed, identifying key component specifications, vessel requirements and installation strategies.
The study provides the first of its kind overview of existing port infrastructure in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu and the possible improvements required for manufacturing, installation and OEM of offshore wind farms.
India has the world’s 5th largest onshore wind market with a total installed capacity of nearly 27GW. However, the country has an acute need for large-scale, clean and indigenous energy generation to fuel its rapidly growing economy, GWEC said. Offshore wind power could play an important role here due to the large wind resources available near centers of high-energy demand. Globally, offshore wind power is becoming mainstream with installations exceeding 12GW at the end of 2015.
“Developing offshore wind in India presents both unique challenges and opportunities. This report is one step forward on the long road towards building a robust, sustainable and cost-effective offshore wind industry in India,” said Steve Sawyer , GWEC Secretary General.
“We truly believe the FOWIND project – including this report – is a great learning experience for all involved. Apart from gathering a lot of valuable knowledge, it also helps to identify where barriers need to be removed and communication needs to be improved, so that the industry can concentrate on its main purpose,” said Mathias Steck , Executive Vice President & Regional Manager Asia Pacific, DNV GL – Energy.
The FOWIND consotium aims to complete the roadmap for offshore wind development in India by 2018.