Dr. Anil Kane, Indian Wind Power Pioneer and President Emeritus of WWEA, passes away
Dr. Anil Kane, Indian Wind Power Pioneer and President Emeritus of WWEA, passes away
Bonn, 26 April 2024 (WWEA) – It is with great sadness that WWEA has become aware of the passing of its President Emeritus Dr. Anil Kane early this morning. Dr Kane led WWEA as President from 2005 to 2011 at a crucial time for the development of wind energy.
Dr Anil Kane was one of the early pioneers of wind power in India, starting in the 1980s. Even then, he was involved in international collaborations and visited other countries. Through his work as a scientist and in building the Indian wind industry, he became a key figure in the development of wind technology in India and globally. In India, he drove wind development as founder and chairman of the Indian Wind Energy Association and as an advisor to major wind companies.
In 2005, he was elected the second President of WWEA, succeeding founding President Dr Preben Maegaard. During his presidency until 2011, he visited many countries, including Europe, many times China or Pakistan, and contributed to the growth of the global wind industry at a crucial time. The 5th World Wind Energy Conference in his home country of India became an important milestone when the then President of India, Dr Abdul Kalam, became one of the first Heads of State to express his full support for a renewable energy future.
The WWEA extends its deepest condolences to Dr Anil Kane's family and will honour his memory as one of the founders of modern wind energy.
Dr. Irfan Mirza, WWEA President: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our esteemed former president of the World Wind Energy Association, a visionary leader who dedicated his life to Advancing wind and sustainable energy solutions worldwide. His passion and commitment have left an indelible mark on our industry and community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time."
Stefan Gsänger, WWEA Secretary General: “Dr Anil Kane, with his impressive personality, has been a beacon and mentor to the wind industry around the world. His vision will continue to guide us in the years to come. I have personally had the privilege of working very closely with him, paving the way for the growth and expansion of our association. We owe him a great deal. My personal condolences to his family."
Prof. Dr. Chuichi Arakawa, WWEA Vice President, Japan: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Anil Kane, a former president of our association. We are grateful for his great leadership on wind energy, and the warmth and compassion with which he brought WWEA stronger. In addition, we still remember his great success of WWEA events in New Delhi over the past 20 years or so. Rest in peace.”
Heinrich Bartelt, WWEA Vice President, Germany: “On this sad occasion, we remember our outstanding leader, wise family man and good friend Anil. As such, he will live in our memories. Deepest condolences to the family.”
Khalid Benhamou, WWEA Vice President and Treasurer, Morocco: “My sincere condolences to his family. Dr. Anil Kane will be sorely missed. Rest in Peace.”
Galyna Shmidt, WWEA Vice President, Ukraine: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of dear Dr. Anil Kane. He was a great person, scientist, public figure, and a real advocate of wind and other renewables not only in India but worldwide. He used to say that the energy of wind, sun, and water is the energy of nature, blessed by God, and people must use it. Our heartfelt condolences to his family."
Dr. Jami Hossain, Technical Chair of WWEA and Honorary Vice President: “A leading light in Wind Energy, Dr. Kane was known globally for his leadership qualities and addressed large gatherings on Wind Energy all over the World. He was a man of scientific temper and a broad vision.”
Prof. Dr. Galal Osman, President Egypt Wind Energy Association and WWEA Honorary Vice President: “Anil Kane took over the WWEA presidency from founder president Preben Maegard in Melbourne Australia as second president. He was an outspoken person and a very kind friend. It is a sad day for me personally. It is a sad Friday for the WWEA family around the world. My deepest condolences.”
Fotos: WWEA/private – Dr. Anil Kane during WWEC2012 in Bonn and in 1980s at the German Growian protoype