NOWA will carry out resource assessments and surveys and enter into contracts with developers for the development of offshore wind energy projects in India’s territorial waters.
Energy minister Shri Watal said: "The Indian government is committed to providing a conducive environment for harnessing offshore wind energy in the country.
"India’s onshore wind energy deployment has crossed 19.6GW, attracting $16.5 billion of investment in 2012, and it is estimated by 2030 installed capacity could reach 191GW."
He added the country's offshore goals could be helped by the $7 billion upgrade of its transmission network.
Preliminary assessments indicate prospects along the coastline of Kerala, Karnataka and Goa, as well as the potential to establish two 1GW wind farms on the coast of India’s southern state of Tamil Nadu.
India is estimated to have 350GW of offshore wind energy capacity.
Shri Chaturvedi, a member of India’s Planning Commission, said the department will ensure the highest priority is given to the renewable energy sector so the country can achieve energy security.
The offshore wind energy steering committee will help with offshore wind energy development by providing policy guidance and overseeing the execution and implementation of offshore wind energy activities.
NOWA will be involved in the process of granting clearance for offshore wind projects, coordinating with relevant government departments including the ministries of defence, civil aviation, home affairs, earth sciences, shipping and the coastguard.
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