Punjab to launch farmer-based solar power scheme

• 9 years ago (2015-03-16)
• Junior Isles

Renewables 752

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The government of the Indian state of Punjab is set to launch a farm-level solar power scheme to promote land-owning farmers projects that range from 1 MW to 2.5 MW. The programme is initially aiming to set up 500 MW of capacity.

The scheme would not only generate clean energy and meet issues with land and water scarcity, but also develop the skill-sets of farmers.

Punjab's New and Renewable Energy Minister Bikram Singh Majithia said that with agricultural production reaching saturation point in the state, the scheme would also give land owners an additional source of revenue.

Any group of willing farmers with at least 5 acres of land each could potentially join such a project, and keep a 51 per cent share of the project company. Farmers would be free to fix the solar panels in a way that made sense to their own specific needs.

The Punjab Energy Development Agency would help farmers set up these small companies and develop power purchase agreements with the state's power corporation, whereas the Indian Renewable Development Agency Ltd and other banks would help provide finance.