Fadnavis announces scheme allowing farmers to sell surplus solar power to grid
Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a new scheme that will allow farmers to sell surplus electricity generated from their solar pump panels to the grid, offering them an additional source of income.
He noted that before 2014, farmers faced difficulties in obtaining electricity connections, but the current administration has prioritised addressing this issue. Under the ‘Magel Tyala Solar Krushi Pump Scheme,’ farmers now receive solar pumps with a 90% subsidy, ensuring reliable daytime electricity for irrigation. Over the 25-year lifespan of solar panels, farmers are expected to save up to Rs 1 million in electricity bills for a 7.5 HP pump.
Fadnavis also highlighted the Chief Minister Solar Agricultural Feeder Scheme 2.0, which includes agreements for 12,000 MW of electricity generation. Full capacity generation is expected within the next two years, allowing farmers to benefit from 100% solar energy for irrigation, contributing to savings in subsidy and cross-subsidy funds.