2011 · Paper V · 10 marksFrequently asked

Deliberate on (i) Wind power in India (ii) Biomass management in India (iii) Ocean energy

In short

Wind power is a mature sector moving offshore with 51.05 GW installed by June 2025 and a 30 GW offshore target, while biomass management turns crop residues into energy despite collection gaps. Ocean energy is still at the R&D stage, though Andhra Pradesh's 974 km coastline offers potential.

Model answer

Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026

Introduction
India’s renewable energy strategy under the National Action Plan on Climate Change321 aims, under the updated NDC, for 50% non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, emphasizing wind power, biomass management, and ocean energy as sustainable alternatives.
Current Status and Development of Wind Power in India
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Robust Capacity and Manufacturing

India ranks fourth globally with 51.05 GW wind capacity (2025), up from 21.04 GW in 2014, supported by a manufacturing base producing 10,000 MW annually.

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Offshore Wind and Policy Support

The 7,500 km coastline offers 30 GW offshore wind potential by 2030, with partnerships with Denmark and the UK addressing infrastructure and regulatory challenges. Andhra Pradesh’s coastline and ports like Visakhapatnam provide strategic offshore wind opportunities.

Approaches and Challenges in Biomass Management in India
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Significant Renewable Contribution

Biomass targets 10,000 MW capacity by 2022, aided by financial support for grid-interactive power and bagasse cogeneration, aligning with Swachh Bharat Mission4’s waste-to-energy initiatives.

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Supply Chain and Regional Potential

Challenges include seasonal feedstock and inefficient tech; Andhra Pradesh’s agrarian economy offers biomass from crop residues and aquaculture waste but needs better collection and processing infrastructure.

Potential and Utilization of Ocean Energy in India
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Emerging Sector with Legal Framework

Ocean energy is in R&D due to costs and site limitations; Article 297 and the Territorial Waters Act govern seabed resources, requiring central-state coordination.

Way Forward
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Biomass Technology Investment

Support R&D and logistics improvements for efficient biomass utilization and year-round feedstock availability.

Conclusion
India’s renewable ambitions hinge on infrastructure upgrades, circular economy adoption in wind, and biomass technology advancement, leveraging coastal states like Andhra Pradesh for sustainable growth.

This model answer is indicative and the model can make mistakes; please verify key facts independently.

Hand-drawn diagram: Three renewable options for India. Three renewable options for India. Diagram (tree): Three renewable options for India; Wind power; 51.05 GW, fourth globally; Biomass; Residues and bagasse cogeneration; Ocean energy; Tidal and wave, R&D stage
Diagram: Three renewable options for India

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This chapter in the exam

Energy: needs, resources, policy; Nuclear programme and policy24 questions

Asked in 8 of 8 sittings since 2008

2008
2
2011
2
2012
5
2016
4
2017
3
2020
3
2023
4
2025
1

Most tested: Renewable energy transition in India, especially solar/clean energy and barriers to large-scale adoption.

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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2011 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.

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