PM Kusum Yojana: Investment, Inverters, Subsidy & Benefits
With increasing emphasis in India on sustainable agriculture and renewable energy, the PM Kusum Yojana has become a boon for farmers. Initiated by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the scheme gives farmers the power of finance to set up solar-powered pumps and decentralized solar energy systems. Not only does it minimize the reliance on traditional electricity, but farmers can also earn extra income from selling excess solar power to the grid.
In this blog, we will look at the goals, advantages, application process, and future potential of the PM Kusum Yojana and how it is transforming Indian agriculture.
What is PM Kusum Yojana?
The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan, or PM Kusum, is the flagship program of the Indian government to encourage the use of solar energy in the agricultural industry. The initiative was initiated in 2019 with the main objective of offering solar-powered irrigation pumps and decentralized generation of solar power to farmers.
Components of PM Kusum Yojana
PM Kusum Yojana is categorized into three constituents:
A: Solar Power Plants on Barren Land
Agriculturists can install grid-connected solar power plants of capacity up to 2 MW on their barren or vacant land.
The power thus generated can be supplied to DISCOMs (Electricity Distribution Companies) at predetermined prices.
B: Independent Solar Pumps
Farmers are given economic support to install independent solar-powered irrigation pumps, which decrease reliance on diesel or electricity.
C: Solarization of Existing Grid-Connected Pumps
Farmers can retrofit their existing irrigation pumps into solar-powered pumps while still being grid-connected.
Surplus power produced can be sold to the grid, creating another revenue source.
Objectives of PM Kusum Yojana
Energy Independence for Farmers: Eliminates dependence on costly diesel and electricity pumps.
Increasing Solar Power Production: Promotes the use of renewable energy in rural communities.
Income Generation: Excess solar energy can be sold by farmers to DISCOMs.
Environmental Advantage: Lowers carbon footprint and encourages environmentally friendly farming.
Enhanced Water Management: Promotes water-efficient irrigation techniques.
Main Features of PM Kusum Yojana
Financial Assistance and Subsidy
Subsidies of up to 60% of the total are given by the Central and State Governments.
Farmers contribute only 10% upfront, while the remaining 30% is available as a loan from banks.
Decentralized Solar Power
Farmers can install solar plants and sell power to the grid, and thus agriculture becomes profitable and sustainable.
Reduction in Power Subsidies
Assists state governments in alleviating the subsidy burden of electricity for farm consumers.
Eligibility for PM Kusum Yojana
Who Can Apply?
Individual farmers
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Cooperatives and Panchayats
Water User Associations
Documents Needed
Aadhaar Card
Land Ownership Documents
Bank Account Information
Electricity Connection Information (if necessary)
How to Apply for PM Kusum Yojana?
Farmers and institutions can submit their applications through the official PM Kusum portal
Step-by-Step Application Process
Visit the Official Portal: Visit the PM Kusum Yojana portal and enroll.
Complete the Application Form: Input personal information, proof of land ownership, and energy needs.
Submit Required Documents: Upload required documents for verification.
Approving and Selecting: The government assesses the applications according to eligibility and suitability of land.
Installation and Financing: Upon approval, the subsidy is paid, and solar panels are installed.
Advantages of PM Kusum Yojana
For Farmers
✅ Cost Savings: No longer diesel or electric bills.
✅ Greater Crop Yield: Sturdy irrigation provides improved crop yield.
✅ Extra Income: Excess solar power can be sold by farmers to DISCOMs.
For Rural Development
✅ Employment Generation: More jobs in solar panel installation and maintenance.
✅ Infrastructure Development: Enhances rural energy infrastructure.
For the Environment
✅ Lower Carbon Footprint: Decreases dependence on fossil fuels.
✅ Improved Water Management: Promotes effective irrigation practices.
Solar Inverters for PM Kusum Yojana
The PM Kusum Yojana is a government initiative aimed at promoting solar energy adoption in the agricultural sector. Under this scheme, farmers can install solar-powered pumps and grid-connected solar plants with attractive subsidies, reducing reliance on conventional electricity and diesel.
A crucial component of any solar system is the solar inverter, which converts DC power generated by solar panels into usable AC power for irrigation and other farming operations. Choosing the right inverter ensures efficient energy conversion, optimal performance, and long-term savings.
Solplanet 350KW 3 Phase Inverter, ASW350K-HT
The Solplanet ASW350K-HT is a 350kW 3-phase on-grid inverter designed for seamless solar energy integration into the electrical grid. It efficiently converts DC power from solar panels into AC power, making it ideal for residential and commercial use. With advanced features and robust construction, this utility inverter ensures reliable performance and maximum energy efficiency for sustainable power.
Sofar 350KTLX0 3 Phase Inverter
The Sofar 350KTLX0 is a high-performance 350kW 3-phase on-grid inverter, designed for seamless integration with solar power systems. Engineered to maximize energy harvest, it efficiently converts solar energy into high-quality AC power for diverse electrical needs. Ideal for reducing electricity costs and promoting sustainable energy, the Sofar 350KTLX0 ensures reliable and efficient solar power utilization.
Challenges and Solutions in Executing PM Kusum Yojana
1. Low Awareness Among Farmers
✅ Solution: Government campaigns and local awareness programs.
2. High Initial Investment
✅ Solution: Subsidy assistance (maximum 60%) and readily available loans.
3. Delayed Implementation
✅ Solution: Improving approval procedures and expanding private solar firm participation.
Future Prospects of PM Kusum Yojana
Expansion to More States: Extending reach to marginal farmers.
Integration with Other Schemes: Synchronization with National Solar Mission for greater impact.
Technological innovations: Implementation of AI and IoT for intelligent irrigation.
Solar Energy Contribution Boost: Assisting India in reaching its target of net-zero carbon by 2070.
Conclusion
The PM Kusum Yojana is transforming Indian farming by offering low-cost, clean, and green energy solutions to farmers. Reducing the cost of electricity, enhancing irrigation efficiency, and generating extra income opportunities for farmers, the scheme goes a long way in meeting India’s renewable energy goals.
