Mandya's First KUSUM-C Solar Project Inaugurated to Power 1,125 Farm Pumps
In a significant development for agricultural power supply, Mandya district has inaugurated its first solar power project under the central government's KUSUM-C scheme. The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday at N Kodahalli village in Maddur taluk, marking a major step towards ensuring reliable daytime electricity for farmers across the region.
Project Launch and Key Attendees
The project was formally launched by Mandya MLA and chairman of Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) Ramesh Bandisiddegowda. The event was attended by CESC managing director KM Munigopal Raju, who highlighted the initiative's focus on solarising agricultural feeders to provide an uninterrupted three-phase power supply during daytime hours.
Project Specifications and Impact
The solar power plant, located within the Besagarahalli power distribution centre limits, spans across 15 acres of land. With an installed capacity of 4.572 MW, this facility represents the first KUSUM-C unit to be established in Mandya district. Once fully commissioned, the plant is expected to supply power to 1,125 agricultural pump sets, significantly reducing farmers' dependence on night-time irrigation and improving overall farm productivity.
Broader Implementation and Future Plans
Officials have stated that this project marks an important milestone in Mandya's transition towards renewable energy-based agricultural power supply. As part of a larger implementation strategy, 12 KUSUM-C solarisation projects are currently at various stages of development across the district, indicating a comprehensive approach to sustainable energy solutions.
Official Statements and Vision
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Ramesh Bandisiddegowda emphasized that the KUSUM-C scheme would play a crucial role in empowering farmers by offering dependable electricity during working hours. He further highlighted how this initiative promotes sustainable energy solutions while addressing the longstanding issue of unreliable power supply for agricultural operations.
The project represents a collaborative effort between government agencies and local authorities to enhance agricultural infrastructure through renewable energy integration. By providing consistent daytime power, farmers can optimize their irrigation schedules and improve crop yields, ultimately contributing to regional agricultural development and economic growth.
