The article delves into understanding the recent review by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) on implementing the Prime Minister’s Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme and Rooftop Solar Programme Phase-II. The intention behind this review is to propose measures that will help to expand these schemes that aim to harness solar energy and the benefits it offers.
About the PM-KUSUM Scheme
PM-KUSUM is an initiative from MNRE which began in 2019, aimed at aiding the installation of off-grid solar pumps in rural areas. This scheme is designed to reduce the dependence on power grids while also enabling farmers to generate solar power on their barren lands which they can then sell to the grid. For the 2020-21 fiscal year, the government extended the scope of the scheme with plans to assist 20 lakh farmers to install standalone solar pumps. In addition, another 15 lakh farmers are set to receive support to solarise their grid-connected pump sets.
Advantages of the PM-KUSUM Scheme
This scheme intends to provide a range of benefits:
– Farmers: The PM-KUSUM scheme provides a reliable daytime source of power for irrigation activities, ensuring water-security. It incentivises farmers to sell surplus solar energy to states, augmenting their income.
– Environment: The scheme leads to efficient ground water usage as farmers are encouraged to save power. It supports the expansion of irrigation coverage through decentralised solar-based irrigation, moving away from polluting diesel.
– Discoms: Farmers become less dependent on subsidized electricity. The PM-KUSUM scheme improves the financial health of discoms by easing the burden of subsidy to the agriculture sector. It also helps fulfil RPO (Renewable Purchase Obligation) targets.
– States: The initiative promotes decentralized solar power production and reduces transmission losses.
Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II
The aim of this scheme is to achieve a cumulative capacity of 40,000 MW from Rooftop Solar Projects by 2022. It involves using the Solar Voltaic panel system to convert DC power generated into AC power before being fed back into the grid. Implemented in states by distribution companies (DISCOMs), the MNRE offers a 40% subsidy for the first 3kW and 20% subsidy for any capacity beyond that up to 10 kW.
Objectives of the Rooftop Solar Programme
This program aims to:
– Encourage the usage of grid-connected SPV rooftops and small SPV power plants among various establishments
– Reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based electricity; promote environment-friendly Solar electricity
– Create favorable conditions for private and state investment in the solar sector
– Facilitate supply of solar power from rooftop and small plants to the grid
Other Schemes for Promoting Solar Energy
Several other schemes are also in operation to promote the usage of solar energy:
– Scheme for Development of Ultra Mega Renewable Energy Power Parks
– National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy 2018
– Atal Jyoti Yojana
– International Solar Alliance (ISA)
– One Sun, One World, One Grid (OSOWOG)
– National Solar Mission
– Suryamitra Skill Development Programme.
These initiatives aim at maximizing the utilization of solar resources, promoting large grid-connected wind-solar PV hybrid systems, providing public lighting systems in power-deficient states, fostering global cooperation in sharing interconnected renewable resources, partaking in national action plans on climate change, and offering skill training to rural youth in handling solar installations.
