The recent CII-Ernst & Young?s report on ?renewable energy- the next wave? points out huge untapped renewable energy resources in the country, which can be used to generate power. As per official estimates, India has a commercially viable renewable potential of around 85,000 mw, which includes wind potential of 45,000 mw, small hydro of 6,000 mw and 25,000 mw of biomass/ bio-energy. The report also adds that the country has potential to generate 20 mw per sq km using solar photovoltaic and solar thermal energy.

India ranks fourth on the All Renewable Index (ARI), an Ernst &Young?s Renewable Energy Country attractiveness Index, which ranks countries based on regulatory environment, fiscal support, unexploited resources, suitability to different technologies and other factor determining renewable energy growth. It adds that India?s consistent top-grade ranking in the ARI over the past few years reflects the country?s appeal as a renewable energy destination.

Highlighting the untapped energy potential of the country, the report stated that though the total wind potential is 45,000 mw, the installed capacity at present is about 10,464 mw with nearly 35,000 mw yet to be tapped. Of biogases co-generation potential of 5,000 mw only 23% has been achieved so far. About 6,000 mw of energy can be generated through small hydro projects, which are economically viable as well, but till date 2,461 mw has been realised. In the solar segment the potential of 20 mw/sq km remains largely untapped for grid interactive solar power.

As the country witnesses a high peak deficit of 12-13% and a sustained energy shortage of 6-8%, the demand and supply gap can be bridged to a large extent through renewable energy sources.