Rajasthan Reaches Major Solar Energy Milestone Under PM-KUSUM
In a significant development for renewable energy adoption, Rajasthan has successfully achieved an installed capacity of 3,000 megawatts under the PM-KUSUM scheme's Components A and C. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced this landmark achievement on Friday, highlighting the state's progress in solar power generation.
Farmers Transform into Energy Producers
The implementation of the PM-KUSUM scheme has enabled farmers across Rajasthan to actively participate in solar energy generation. Chief Minister Sharma emphasized that this initiative has transformed the agricultural community's role, stating, "With PM-KUSUM, farmers are not only food producers but are also contributing as energy producers, and the state is moving towards greater self-reliance in the energy sector."
This achievement positions Rajasthan as one of the leading states in India for implementing the PM-KUSUM scheme's Components A and C, which focus on decentralized solar power plants and solarization of grid-connected agriculture pumps respectively.
Collective Efforts Drive Success
Sharma extended congratulations to farmers, energy department officials, and personnel from Rajasthan's Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) for their collaborative efforts. "The collective efforts of farmers and energy sector personnel helped Rajasthan emerge as one of the leading states in the country in implementing PM-KUSUM Components A and C," the Chief Minister noted.
The scheme, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to promote renewable energy in agriculture while supporting farmers through cleaner energy alternatives.
Improved Power Supply and Additional Benefits
Referring to enhanced power infrastructure in rural areas, Sharma revealed that due to sustained government efforts, farmers in 22 districts now receive electricity during daytime hours, significantly easing agricultural operations.
Furthermore, the state government is providing subsidies for installing solar pump sets under PM-KUSUM Component B. This component specifically targets the solarization of existing grid-connected agriculture pumps, with the objective of reducing dependence on conventional power sources and promoting sustainable farming practices.
"The objective is to promote the use of renewable energy in agriculture and support farmers through cleaner energy options," Sharma explained, underscoring the dual benefits of energy security and environmental sustainability.
This 3,000 MW milestone represents a substantial step toward Rajasthan's energy independence and demonstrates how policy initiatives can successfully integrate agricultural communities into the renewable energy ecosystem.
