The PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024, introduced by the Government of India under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), aims to empower farmers by promoting the use of solar energy. This initiative helps farmers install solar pumps and establish solar power plants, offering them financial support and sustainable energy solutions. Launched in 2019, the scheme addresses energy needs for irrigation while encouraging farmers to harness renewable energy for income generation.
PM Kusum Yojana Details:
•Scheme Name: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM)
•Launched by: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)
•Launch Year: 2019
•Subsidy: Central and State Governments provide a 60% subsidy, and farmers bear 40% of the cost, which can be availed through loans.
•Goal: Provide solar power solutions for irrigation and encourage farmers to generate and sell electricity to DISCOMs.
Benefits of PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana:
1. Income Generation
Under Component A, farmers can lease their land to install solar power plants with a capacity of 500 KW to 2 MW. The generated electricity is sold to DISCOMs, offering farmers a steady annual income between Rs 60,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per acre for up to 25 years.
2. Solar-Powered Irrigation Pumps
Under Component B, solar-powered pumps up to 7.5 horsepower (HP) are provided to farmers for irrigation. This reduces reliance on diesel pumps, cutting down fuel costs, and allowing farmers in off-grid areas to use solar power efficiently.
3. Grid-Connected Solarisation
Component C of the scheme focuses on solarising grid-connected agricultural pumps, enabling farmers to power their irrigation systems with solar energy. Excess electricity can be sold back to the grid, providing a sustainable source of income.
4. Environmental Impact
By promoting solar energy, the scheme reduces dependence on conventional fossil fuels and contributes to the government’s goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in India’s energy mix. It also reduces carbon emissions, supporting environmental sustainability.
5. Subsidy and Loan Assistance
Farmers receive a 60% subsidy for the installation of solar systems. The remaining 40% can be financed through loans, making the scheme financially accessible to farmers from various economic backgrounds.
Components of PM Kusum Yojana
The PM Kusum Yojana is divided into three main components:
Component A: Solar Power Generation
This component allows farmers, developers, and cooperatives to set up solar power plants ranging from 500 KW to 2 MW. The electricity generated is sold to DISCOMs, creating a consistent revenue stream for farmers. The focus is on barren and unproductive land, making use of underutilized spaces for energy generation.
Component B: Solar Pumps
Under this component, standalone solar-powered pumps with capacities up to 7.5 HP are installed in areas without grid connectivity. These pumps replace traditional diesel-powered systems, offering an eco-friendly and cost-efficient solution for irrigation.
Component C: Grid-Connected Solar Pumps
This component focuses on converting grid-connected pumps into solar-powered systems, ensuring that farmers can meet their irrigation needs without relying solely on the power grid. Any excess power generated by the solar system can be sold to DISCOMs, providing an additional source of income for the farmer.
Eligibility Criteria for PM Kusum Yojana:
To be eligible for the PM Kusum Yojana, applicants must meet certain criteria:
1.Land Ownership: Applicants must be farmers who own land that is suitable for solar installations. The land can be barren, swampy, or otherwise unproductive.
2.Location Proximity: The land should ideally be located within a 5 km radius of an electrical substation.
3.Documents Required:
•Proof of land ownership
•Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID
•Bank account details
•Khasra Khatauni number (legal land document)
•Passport-sized photograph
•Self-declaration form
•Proof of GST registration (if applicable)
Farmers with access to unproductive land, remote locations, or barren lands are encouraged to apply, as this land can be utilized for solar energy generation.
How to Apply for PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024?
Farmers can apply for the PM Kusum Solar Subsidy Yojana 2024 through the official MNRE website. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1.Visit the Official Website:
•Go to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) website at pmkusum.mnre.gov.in.
2.Choose the Desired Component:
•Select the relevant component (Component A, B, or C) depending on whether you want to set up a solar power plant, install solar pumps, or convert an existing pump into a solar system.
3.Fill the Application Form:
•Complete the application form with personal, land, and project details.
•Attach necessary documents, including proof of land ownership, identification documents, and other required paperwork.
4.Submit the Application:
•Once you have completed the application form and attached all documents, submit the application online.
•After successful submission, a confirmation message and registration number will be provided.
5.Track Your Application:
•You can use your registration number to track the status of your application on the official website.
For more details and to apply, visit the official website: pmkusum.mnre.gov.in.