Karnataka Accelerates Solar Push to Power Agriculture Through Kusum-C Scheme – EQ
In Short : Karnataka has commissioned 200 MW of solar power under the Kusum-C scheme to supply daytime electricity for farm irrigation. An additional 545 MW is expected soon across 93 locations. Aimed at clean energy and farmer welfare, the state plans to scale up to 2,400 MW under the scheme, using subsidised land and solarising agricultural feeders for sustainable rural electrification.
In Detail : Karnataka has successfully commissioned 200 MW of solar power under the central government’s Kusum-C scheme, which focuses on solarising agricultural feeders. This move is aimed at providing reliable daytime electricity to farmers for operating irrigation pump sets, reducing their dependence on conventional power sources and improving farm productivity.
State Energy Minister K.J. George shared that the Kusum-C initiative is a significant step toward integrating clean energy into Karnataka’s rural power infrastructure. The scheme is designed to ensure stable and sustainable electricity supply to agriculture, while also reducing the burden on the state’s power utilities.
To build on the current progress, the state government plans to add another 545 MW of solar capacity under the same scheme. These new installations are planned across 93 identified locations, and work is expected to be completed in the coming months, significantly boosting Karnataka’s renewable energy share.
The overall goal under Kusum-C for Karnataka is to achieve a total capacity of 2,400 MW. The government is facilitating this expansion by offering subsidised land for solar projects and encouraging private participation to speed up implementation.
The solar feeders developed under the scheme will directly power agricultural pump sets, thereby cutting transmission losses and improving the quality of supply. Farmers benefit through uninterrupted power supply during the day, which is safer and more efficient compared to night-time electricity.
This initiative also aligns with Karnataka’s broader sustainability goals and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. By harnessing solar energy to power agriculture, the state is not only empowering its farmers but also contributing to India’s renewable energy targets.
