Wind energy plays a critical role in achieving sustainable energy transitions, particularly in developing economies with rapidly increasing energy demands. However, the efficiency and feasibility of wind energy projects are highly dependent on optimal site selection, which requires the integration of multiple technical, environmental, and infrastructural factors. This study employs a Geographic Information System (GIS)–based multi-criteria decision analysis to identify suitable locations for wind turbine installation across India at an 80 m hub height. Wind speed data were extrapolated to hub height, and seven key parameters—wind speed, slope, elevation, land use/land cover, proximity to roads, railways, and power lines—were incorporated using a weighted overlay approach. Each parameter was ranked and assigned weights based on technical relevance and operational constraints. The results indicate that Western and Southern India exhibit high suitability for wind energy development, while Northern and Northeastern regions are comparatively less suitable due to complex terrain and unfavourable wind conditions. The findings provide a spatial decision-support framework for planners and policymakers to guide sustainable wind energy deployment in India.
Benny et al. (Fri,) studied this question.