In a bid to revolutionise energy access and agricultural practices, the Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled ambitious plans to harness solar power for irrigation purposes through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) scheme. This initiative, designed to cater to the energy needs of the state’s burgeoning agricultural sector, aims to install over 30,000 solar photovoltaic irrigation pumps across Uttar Pradesh.
This initiative aims to provide free electricity to farmers. The target is to achieve 2000 MW capacity of solar energy in Uttar Pradesh by 2027. Approval for 2000 private on-grid pumps in Kusum C-1 has already been granted, and subsidies of 90 percent are available for all farmers, with up to 100 percent subsidies for economically weaker communities. Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Agency (UPNEDA) has received 5000 applications for solarization of private on-grid pumps in Kusum C-1, with plans to solarize 2000 private metered on-grid pumps. This not only reduces power losses for the Power Corporation but also provides substantial benefits to farmers.
According to recent budget announcements (2024-25), the state government has allocated a substantial budget of Rs 449.45 crore for the implementation of the PM KUSUM Yojana, marking a significant increase compared to previous fiscal allocations. The plan underscores the government’s commitment to promoting clean energy alternatives while addressing the pressing energy demands of Uttar Pradesh’s farming communities.
The responsibility of executing this ambitious initiative falls upon the UPNEDA, which will oversee the installation of solar-powered irrigation systems spanning 75 districts. Through the deployment of surface and submersible pumps, farmers across the state will gain access to clean energy solutions, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.
The PM KUSUM scheme represents a paradigm shift in the agricultural landscape, empowering farmers to diversify their income streams beyond traditional farming practices. By leveraging solar energy resources, farmers can now utilise non-arable lands for the installation of solar panels, contributing to both energy generation and income augmentation. The scheme aims to connect lakhs of farmers to the national grid, enabling them to harness surplus power and bolster their economic prospects.
At the national level, the PM KUSUM initiative forms a pivotal component of the Government of India’s broader vision to mitigate climate change and promote renewable energy adoption. Launched in alignment with the Paris Climate Agreement objectives, the scheme targets significant reductions in fossil fuel dependency by transitioning towards sustainable energy sources.
The multifaceted PM KUSUM scheme comprises three key components:
Decentralised Grid Connected Solar Power Plants (Component-A): Under this component, farmers, cooperatives, panchayats, and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can establish small solar power plants on barren or cultivable lands. The generated power will be purchased by Distribution companies (DISCOMs) at tariffs set by State Electricity Regulatory Commissions.
Installation of Standalone Solar Powered Agriculture Pumps (Component-B): This facet of the scheme facilitates the replacement of diesel pumps with solar-powered alternatives, reducing irrigation costs and environmental pollution. With a focus on off-grid areas, small and marginal farmers receive priority assistance, including subsidies and financing options.
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Solarisation of Agriculture Feeders (Component-C): Through this variant, agricultural feeders are equipped with solar power plants, ensuring reliable daytime power for irrigation purposes. The initiative offers subsidies for solarisation, significantly reducing operational costs and promoting sustainable energy practices.
The PM KUSUM scheme not only promises to enhance energy and water security for farmers but also presents substantial employment opportunities. Studies indicate that for every megawatt of solar installation, approximately 24.50 job-years are created, fostering selfemployment and skill development among rural communities.
By embracing solar energy solutions, farmers stand to benefit from stable income streams and reduced operational expenses over the scheme’s 25-year lifespan. Through collaborative efforts between the government, financial institutions, and agricultural stakeholders, the PM KUSUM initiative aims to catalyse a new era of sustainable agriculture and economic prosperity across India.
In conclusion, PM KUSUM emerges as a transformative initiative poised to redefine the energy landscape of Uttar Pradesh and India at large. As the nation strives towards a greener, more sustainable future, the empowerment of farmers through clean energy solutions remains paramount, embodying the spirit of progress and environmental stewardship.
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