Modi govt okays policy for offshore wind energy

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved National Offshore Wind Energy Policy which will pave the way for development of this renewable source of energy, including setting up of projects and research in the area.

"The Cabinet today fixed policy guidelines for offshore wind energy in the coming days," Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy Minister Piyush Goyal said in a press conference after a Cabinet meeting in New Delhi, adding, "Under the policy, there will be energy mapping of the country and locations with high potential will be identified. After that the government will seek required approval from various departments like space, defence and shipping, before finally putting these projects for bidding."

According to an official statement, ministry of new and renewable energy will be the nodal ministry for use of offshore areas within EEZ (exclusive economic zone) of the country. Moreover, National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) will be the nodal agency for development of offshore wind energy in the country and to carry out allocation of offshore wind energy blocks, coordination and allied functions with related ministries and agencies, it said.