Bhubaneswar: In anticipation of Global Wind Day, the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE), in collaboration with the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd. (IREDA), organized a pre-event conference in Bhubaneswar today.
The event highlighted India’s commitment to renewable energy, with a focus on the burgeoning wind energy sector. Dr. B. K. Mohanty, Director (Finance) at IREDA, read out a speech from Lalit Bohra, Joint Secretary (MNRE), which emphasized the rapid development of renewable energy across India and the proactive measures taken by the Government of India, including initiatives in Odisha. According to the National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE), India’s onshore wind potential is estimated at 1,164 GW at 150 meters above ground level, with Odisha contributing a significant 12 GW of this potential.
Pradip Kumar Das, CMD of IREDA, delivered the keynote address, highlighting Odisha’s substantial green energy potential and the promising opportunities within the state. He noted Odisha’s potential to become a leader in green hydrogen projects, underscoring the state’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives.
“As of 31st March 2024, IREDA has disbursed cumulative loans totaling Rs. 1,25,917 crores in renewable energy, with Rs. 26,913 crores directed towards wind power projects nationwide. Specifically, Rs. 1,637 crores have been allocated by IREDA towards renewable energy projects in Odisha,” Das stated. He also highlighted Odisha’s Renewable Energy Policy 2022, which aims to attract investments in clean energy, particularly focusing on renewable energy manufacturing and emerging technologies such as green hydrogen, green ammonia, and floating solar.
