IWTMA calls for rolling transmission plans for 100 GW wind target

The Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA), in a report supported by MEC Intelligence, has urged the government to prepare rolling transmission plans linked to projected renewable energy additions. India aims to add 100 GW of wind power by 2030. The study analysed regulatory frameworks across eight states that account for nearly 90% of India's onshore wind pipeline: Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana.

The report, which assessed grid planning, found that Gujarat has a five-year rolling transmission plan with annual progress reports and published substation capacity. Madhya Pradesh has a similar framework, and Andhra Pradesh has a structured five-year plan. Maharashtra follows a ten-year framework, but several other states lack dedicated wind transmission plans. IWTMA said timely grid connectivity and digital platforms for connectivity applications are essential.

The report also flagged Right of Way approvals and land acquisition as key hurdles. It recommended digitising approvals, defined compensation mechanisms, and structured dispute resolution. Gujarat has an online portal for RoW approvals, and Maharashtra has an escalation mechanism for disputes. However, none of the eight states have best-practice compensation frameworks for RoW, indicating a common area for policy improvement.