Integral to UDAY, smart meters can help discoms overhaul services. But picking the right technology is the issue.

An interview to answer some key questions on offshore wind technology, policy and potential.

The offshore wind industry has significant potential as a long-term solution. However, with the current costs being high, we need to study the factors that will make it viable and plausibly cheaper in the years to come. Based on a preliminary examination of existing port infrastructure in India, it is evident that enormous reinforcement efforts will be required in order to service our future offshore wind energy projects along with establishing regulatory and institutional frameworks that will guide the local stakeholders.

Renewable energy technologies are witnessing a fast-paced growth globally at 8.33%, supported by government policy. Offshore wind technology,
although a recent entrant into the arena, has already witnessed a cumulative capacity of 8,771 MW in 2014, representing a sizeable 12.6% of the
annual EU wind energy market. This is expected to grow to 40 GW by 2020. The UK, Denmark, Germany, Belgium and China are currently the leading
countries in installing offshore wind turbines and expected to contribute to most of this growth in installed capacity.

CSTEP has observed a lack of awareness amongst employees about AT&C losses, a lack of accountability, inadequate manpower and resources, poor operation and maintenance of the infrastructure, etc.