To address the challenges faced by farmers owning unproductive or unused lands, the Indian Government has introduced an innovative solution through the PM KUSUM Scheme. Launched in 2019, this program offers a dual approach to harness solar energy effectively.
Farmers can either establish solar power plants on their land and sell the generated electricity to DISCOMs or lease their land for a fixed annual rental income. Additionally, the scheme facilitates the use of solar-powered pumps for irrigation, enabling surplus electricity to be used for household needs or sold back to DISCOMs.
Key Features of the Solar Subsidy Scheme
This program benefits landowners with barren, swampy, or remote plots, providing opportunities to install solar panels or lease their land to developers. Participants can earn a steady income of ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000 annually for 25 years by selling solar energy.
The scheme also encourages the installation of solar irrigation pumps up to 7.5 hp capacity, with subsidies covering 30% of the cost from both central and state governments. The remaining 40% can be financed through bank loans repayable over 30 years, often within 5-6 years due to reduced operational costs.
The program aims to phase out traditional diesel generators, reducing fuel expenses while promoting eco-friendly solutions. Farmers interested in this initiative can apply online through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) portal. The government has allocated ₹34,422 crore to integrate an additional 34,800 MW of solar energy into the grid by March 2026.
Overview of PM KUSUM Yojana
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Nodal Agency | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Govt of India |
| Scheme Name | Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan |
| Subsidy Structure | Central Govt: 30%, State Govt: 30%, Farmer Borne: 40% |
| Loan Tenure | 30 years |
| Annual Earnings | ₹1,00,000 per year |
| Official Website | pmkusum.mnre.gov.in |
Benefits of PM KUSUM Solar Subsidy Scheme
The PM-KUSUM initiative aims to promote green energy by incentivizing the adoption of solar-powered systems. This initiative is crucial for combating climate change and fostering a sustainable ecosystem. The scheme is particularly beneficial for farmers in remote areas, enabling them to meet irrigation and domestic energy needs independently. Structured into three distinct components, the program ensures inclusivity for farmers across India.
Component A: Solar Generation Facility
- Farmers, developers, cooperatives, and Panchayats can install solar power plants with a capacity of up to 10,000 MW.
- These plants can be ground-mounted or installed on stilts, with no direct financial assistance required from the government.
- Generated power can be sold to DISCOMs, allowing the construction of Renewable Power Generators ranging from 500 kW to 2 MW.
- By January 2024, 4,766 MW of solar capacity had been sanctioned, with 165.28 MW operational.
Component B: Off-Grid Solar Pumps
- Designed for areas lacking grid connectivity, this component supports the installation of solar-powered pumps up to 7.5 hp.
- Both the central and state governments provide 30% subsidies, while the remaining cost (40%) is covered by farmers or financed through loans.
- Diesel-powered pumps can be replaced, significantly reducing operational costs.
- As of January 2024, thousands of standalone solar pumps had been installed across various regions.
Component C: Grid-Connected Pumps
- Aims to solarize 35 lakh agricultural pumps through Individual Pump Solarization and Feeder Level Solarization.
- Farmers with grid-connected pumps receive a 30% subsidy, which can go up to 50% in North-Eastern, hilly, or island regions.
- Loans covering up to 70% of the cost are available, with states offering additional subsidies.
- Surplus electricity generated can be sold back to DISCOMs at pre-determined rates, providing an extra income source.
Eligibility and Required Documents
To qualify for the PM KUSUM Scheme, applicants must be landowners with lands suitable for solar projects, preferably within a 5 km radius of an electrical substation. Below are the documents required for application:
- Proof of land ownership or lease agreements
- Bank account details
- Khasra Khatauni number
- Proof of identity: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, or Driver’s License
- Proof of GST registration
- Address proof and recent passport-sized photograph
- Self-declaration statement
Application Process for PM KUSUM Scheme
Farmers can apply for the PM KUSUM Solar Subsidy Scheme through the official MNRE portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official website pmkusum.mnre.gov.in.
- Navigate to the state-wise application link for the desired component.
- Choose your preferred option (land leasing or solar-powered pump installation).
- Fill out the application form and upload the required documents.
- Double-check the entered details before submission.
- Submit the application to receive a registration acknowledgment with a unique number.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the PM KUSUM Scheme?
The scheme aims to encourage the use of solar energy for irrigation and electricity generation, providing financial benefits to farmers while reducing reliance on diesel-powered systems.
Who can apply for the scheme?
Landowners in rural or off-grid areas, particularly those with barren or unused lands, are eligible to apply.
What are the benefits of leasing land under this scheme?
Farmers can earn a steady annual income of ₹60,000 to ₹1,00,000 by leasing their land for solar projects or selling solar-generated electricity.
