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India's Farms Go Solar: New Scheme Powers Machines
13 Nov
Summary
- Solar energy to power agricultural machinery beyond irrigation pumps.
- PM KUSUM 2.0 aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence in farming.
- India targets 500 GW clean energy capacity by 2030.
India is preparing to launch PM KUSUM 2.0, an expanded phase of its solar energy initiative for agriculture. This new phase will extend solar power adoption beyond irrigation pumps to encompass other essential agricultural machinery. The Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Pralhad Joshi, announced the upcoming scheme, emphasizing its role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
The existing PM KUSUM scheme has successfully promoted solar-powered pumps. The proposed expansion aligns with India's broader objectives to increase farm mechanization while simultaneously lowering energy costs and cutting emissions associated with agricultural practices. India has already surpassed 312 GW of renewable energy capacity and is actively working towards its 2030 target of 500 GW.
Minister Joshi also highlighted the success of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which has already reached 66 lakh households. He urged consumers to shift their electricity usage to daylight hours, when solar power is abundant, to help decrease reliance on coal-fired power plants and support economic growth without increasing emissions.
