India is preparing for what could be a transformative moment in its clean energy journey — the launch of a major offshore wind tender that experts say could reshape the nation's renewable landscape.
The announcement comes as global interest in India's offshore wind potential continues to grow, with industry veterans emphasizing that the success of this first-of-its-kind auction will send powerful signals to international investors and developers about the viability of India's marine energy sector.
Jesper Badea Jensen, Head of Secretariat at the Centre of Excellence for Offshore Wind and Renewable Energy, told Power Line Magazine that the offshore wind space in India stands at a critical juncture. He expressed hope that the upcoming tender would attract not just domestic players but also experienced international developers who bring technical expertise and proven project delivery capabilities.
"I wish that a successful offshore wind tender in India happens, hopefully with international developers," Jensen said. "This will showcase the confidence in the Indian market and will lead to many more developers paying attention."
India's coastline stretches over 7,500 kilometers, offering enormous potential for offshore wind installations. The government has identified several promising zones along the coasts of Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, where deep-water and shallow-water wind resources have been mapped and assessed.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has been working closely with state governments and industry stakeholders to finalize the regulatory framework, bidding parameters, and grid integration plans for offshore wind projects. The aim is to award multiple tender packages in phases, starting with smaller capacity allocations and gradually scaling up as infrastructure and supply chains mature.
Experts note that attracting international developers early in the process could accelerate technology transfer, lower costs through competition, and help build a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem for wind turbines and related components.
Currently, India derives most of its renewable capacity from solar and onshore wind, with offshore wind remaining virtually untapped. A successful tender could unlock billions in investment and position India as a significant player in the global offshore wind market, which is expected to exceed $200 billion in annual spending globally by the end of the decade.
