To commemorate Global Wind Day, Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association organised an awareness programme on the importance of wind energy at Marina Beach on June 15. A signature campaign was held. A graduate who was a part of the programme said, “I feel great to have extended my support towards wind energy. After the power cut hours got reduced, I realised that what wonders wind energy could bring. There are many who are not aware of the importance of this alternative source of energy but I am sure that this campaign will reach out to many.”
On the occasion, Ramesh Kymal, Chairman, Indian Wind Turbines Manufacturers Association, said that in the last fiscal (2011-2012), wind energy developers installed a record of 3 GW which added to the total installed capacity of 16.5 GW. On a global scale, Tamil Nadu has great potential for wind energy, he added. The recent shortage of power supply in Tamil Nadu in the last few months was compensated by wind energy. An average of 1,500-2,000 MW has been generated by the wind turbines in the last few months which has helped in bringing down the number of power cut hours from two to one.
Wind energy helps in reducing the country’s dependence on imports to meet energy requirements. Today India ranks fifth in the world in terms of installed wind capacity with much potential to be tapped. Tamil Nadu being the pioneers in the wind energy sector has many potential players.
Secretary General of Indian Wind Turbines Manufacturers Association D.V Giri said, “Wind energy is the need of the hour. As we all know, it is the best suited alternative source to substitute power. Our country is undoubtedly the destination to harness renewable energy. Global wind Day is to realise the importance of wind energy and create awareness among the public,” he added.
According to an annual statistical report of the Global Wind Energy Council, there was a massive growth (from 61,106 MW in 2010 to 82,398 MW in 2011) in the cumulative wind power capacity in Asia in 2010 and 2011. He said that the continent will continue to be the world’s largest market with more installations with a capacity of 1,18,000 MW by 2016.
Global Wind Day is a worldwide event that occurs annually on 15 June. It is a day for discovering wind, its power and the possibilities it holds to change our world. It is also a day for discovery of the work that has already begun by pioneers around the world. In more than 75 countries around the globe, wind farms are in operation, generating energy from a clean and renewable source. Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA) started with a vision to promote and harness wind energy for sustained growth. This green revolution (clean energy) will encompass the economy, business, rural employment and contribute toward self-reliance to meet the growing need of power. IWTMA strives towards high efficiency with the best technology and cost efficiency through volume.
As part of the campaign, a flute (as it is a wind instrument) concert was organised.
Flutist Shashank teamed up with guest artist Purbayan Chaatterjee, to present a recital.
