Context:
Agri-photovoltaics (agriPV) is emerging as a transformative solution in India by integrating solar energy generation with agriculture, supported by enhanced funding under the PM-KUSUM scheme and India’s clean energy targets.
Key Highlights:
- Government Initiative / Policy Support
- PM-KUSUM budget nearly doubled to ₹5,000 crore (2026-27).
- Push towards solarisation of agriculture and farmer energy independence.
- Proposal for a National AgriPV Mission under PM-KUSUM 2.0.
- Technology & System Design
- Types: Elevated panels, row-based, vertical, greenhouse-integrated systems.
- Enables simultaneous crop cultivation and electricity generation.
- Around 50 pilot projects underway across India.
- Agricultural & Environmental Benefits
- Reduced evapotranspiration → better water efficiency.
- Protection from extreme weather (heat, hail).
- Supports shade-tolerant crops and improves land productivity.
- Economic & Institutional Aspects
- Models: Farmer-owned, cooperatives, private leasing, state-led projects.
- Enhances farmer income diversification.
- Challenges include high capital cost and unclear revenue-sharing mechanisms.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- AgriPV: Dual use of land for solar power + agriculture.
- PM-KUSUM Scheme: Promotes solar pumps and decentralized solar power for farmers.
- Evapotranspiration: Water loss from soil and plants to atmosphere.
- India’s Solar Target: 300 GW by 2030; Net-zero by 2070.
- Shade-Tolerant Crops: Crops like leafy vegetables that grow under reduced sunlight.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Energy-Agriculture Nexus:
- Addresses energy security + agricultural sustainability simultaneously.
- Farmer Income Enhancement:
- Additional revenue from selling surplus electricity.
- Climate Change Mitigation:
- Promotes clean energy and reduces carbon footprint.
- Challenges:
- High initial investment and financing constraints.
- Lack of awareness and technical expertise.
- Land ownership and regulatory ambiguities.
- Governance Dimension:
- Requires coordination between energy, agriculture, and state agencies.
- Way Forward
- Provide financial incentives and subsidies for adoption.
- Promote R&D for crop-panel compatibility.
- Develop clear policy frameworks and land-use guidelines.
- Encourage public-private partnerships and farmer training.
UPSC Relevance:
- GS 3: Economy, Environment, Energy
- GS 2: Governance