Maharashtra to Launch World’s Largest 16,000 MW Decentralized Solar Project by 2026 – EQ
In Short : Maharashtra is set to complete the world’s largest decentralized solar project, generating 16,000 MW by March 2026 under the MSKVY 2.0 scheme. With ₹65,000 crore private investment, it will supply farmers affordable daytime power at ₹3/unit. The project, partially inaugurated by PM Modi, aims to solarize agriculture, reduce distribution losses, create jobs, and boost the state’s green energy transition.
In Detail : Maharashtra is on track to complete the world’s largest decentralized solar power project, targeting a total capacity of 16,000 MW by March 2026. The initiative is part of the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) 2.0, designed to provide farmers with affordable, daytime electricity for irrigation purposes. This project is a key step in modernizing agricultural energy infrastructure.
The project is being implemented by the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd (MSEDCL) in collaboration with private entities. So far, 1,972 MW of capacity has already been commissioned, and an additional 5,000 MW is expected to be operational by September 2025. The phased rollout ensures gradual integration with the state’s existing power network.
Private investment of approximately ₹65,000 crore is funding the development of solar parks near substations across Maharashtra. These parks are designed to reduce distribution losses and ensure farmers can access electricity at a highly affordable rate of ₹3 per unit. The scheme incentivizes private participation while promoting sustainable energy use.
By 2030, the state plans to generate an additional 45,000 MW of power, with 38,000 MW coming from renewable sources. This transition is projected to save ₹82,000 crore in electricity procurement costs over five years and create nearly 700,000 jobs, further strengthening the economic and social benefits of the green energy drive.
The MSKVY 2.0 scheme is specifically aimed at solarizing agricultural operations across the state. With over 4.5 million agricultural pumps in operation, the initiative seeks to provide a reliable and sustainable daytime power supply for farmers, reducing dependence on costly diesel-based alternatives and ensuring uninterrupted irrigation support.
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first five solar parks under the project. Located in Dhondalgaon, Bamni Budruk, Haroli, Jalalabad, and Palshi Budruk, these parks collectively contribute 19 MW to the total capacity. The inauguration marks a significant milestone in the rollout of India’s largest decentralized solar initiative.
The decentralized design of the project ensures that power generation is closely aligned with local consumption, enhancing both efficiency and reliability. By situating solar parks near substations and agricultural hubs, the scheme reduces transmission losses and provides immediate benefits to end-users, particularly farmers in rural regions.
The MSKVY 2.0 initiative is also expected to attract substantial private investment and generate numerous employment opportunities in rural areas. Construction, operations, and maintenance of solar infrastructure will create jobs while also fostering skill development in the renewable energy sector, contributing to overall rural economic growth.
Upon completion, the 16,000 MW decentralized solar project will be the largest of its kind globally. It is poised to serve as a model for integrating renewable energy into agricultural infrastructure, reduce Maharashtra’s carbon footprint, promote energy independence, and drive both agricultural and industrial sustainability across the state.
