India approves National Offshore Wind Energy Policy

Consequent to the Cabinet approval dated September 9, 2015, the MNRE has finally released the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy. The policy authorises the National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) to conduct the auction of offshore wind farms. Oil and gas exploration firms, seabed mining firms and the others, which have existing leases on offshore blocks, can participate in the installation of wind farms on their existing acreages. However, the lease holders need to route their proposals through NIWE, which will be the nodal agency for the development of offshore wind energy. The blocks will be leased out through an international competitive bidding mechanism, which is yet to be finalised. NIWE will also be the sole facilitator for obtaining clearances and no-objection certificates for such offshore blocks.