The Government of Madhya Pradesh is offering farmers and small investors an opportunity to participate in solar energy production through the “Suryamitra Agricultural Feeder Scheme.” Under this initiative, farmers can become electricity producers and local investors can also earn returns. The scheme aims to empower farmers economically by providing affordable electricity for daytime irrigation.
New and Renewable Energy Minister Mr. Rakesh Shukla stated that solar power projects will be established up to 100% of the capacity of power substations under the scheme. This will support the 'Vocal for Local' campaign by creating investment and employment opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The government will enter into a 25-year power purchase agreement for these projects.
The key objective of the scheme is to supply electricity during the day to facilitate better irrigation and improve farmers' quality of life. Direct power supply through 11 kV feeders will reduce transmission losses and enhance grid stability. The initiative will also address issues like overloading, low voltage, and frequent power cuts at substations.
Financial Support for Project Development: To support the establishment of these solar projects, the government has made provisions for a 3% interest rate rebate for up to seven years under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund. MoUs have been signed with national and international financial institutions and banks to ensure easy access to credit and smooth project operations.
Target to Solarize 3.45 Lakh Agricultural Pumps: So far, 80 MW of solar projects have been commissioned, energizing over 16,000 agricultural pumps. Projects with a capacity of 240 MW are under construction, while 200 MW are in the pipeline. Once complete, these 520 MW projects will benefit over one lakh pumps. Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, the government has set a target to solarize 3.45 lakh pumps, with tenders already issued for 2.45 lakh of them.
Summit on June 10: To facilitate better understanding of the scheme, the “Suryamitra Agricultural Feeder Scheme Summit” will be organized on June 10 at Kushabhau Thakre Convention Hall, Bhopal. The summit will provide technical, financial, and tender-related guidance to developers and other stakeholders.
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