India Launches Second Phase of PM-KUSUM Scheme to Enhance Solar Energy for Farmers
The Indian government has launched the second phase of the PM-KUSUM scheme to enhance energy and water security for farmers, consisting of three components aimed at solar power generation. While Component B, which supports off-grid solar irrigation pumps, has seen some success, concerns about groundwater depletion have arisen, and limited uptake in other components highlights challenges such as financing difficulties. The government plans to refine the scheme to better address farmers' needs in this next phase.
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The Indian government is designing the second phase of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme, aimed at improving energy and water security for farmers. The scheme includes three components: Component A allows farmers to establish large solar power plants (500 kW to 2 MW) with no subsidies, leading to low uptake due to high investment requirements.
Component B supports off-grid solar irrigation pumps with subsidies, achieving success mainly in north-western states but raising concerns about groundwater depletion. Component C facilitates farmers to install small solar panels and sell surplus electricity, although uptake has been limited.
Issues identified include financing difficulties for small farmers and the need for targeted policies to improve accessibility. The government seeks to refine the scheme to better serve farmers' needs in the upcoming phase.
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