Source: TH
Context:
India’s push for 300 GW solar capacity by 2030 and net-zero by 2070 is increasing pressure on land resources. With agriculture already occupying over half of India’s land, Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV) is emerging as a sustainable solution to balance energy and food security.
The Union Budget 2026–27 increased allocation for PM-KUSUM Scheme to ₹5,000 crore, reinforcing farmer-centric solarisation.
What is Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV)?
- Integration of:
- Solar power generation
- Agricultural cultivation on the same land
- Solar panels are:
- Mounted above crops
- Spaced between rows
- Integrated into greenhouses
Types of AgriPV Systems
1. Elevated Systems
- Panels mounted several meters above ground
- Allow full-scale farming below
2. Row-Based Systems
- Panels installed between crop rows
- Minimise shading impact
3. Vertical Systems
- Upright panels capturing sunlight from both sides
4. Greenhouse-Integrated Systems
- Panels on roofs/walls
- Provide controlled growing conditions
Crop Selection Strategy
Key Principle
- Match crops with sunlight availability under panels
Suitable Crops
- Shade-tolerant crops:
- Turmeric, ginger, leafy vegetables, tulsi
- Sunlight-intensive crops (between rows):
- Tomato, onion, potato, chilli
Regional Examples
- Madhya Pradesh: Tomato, garlic, turmeric
- Karnataka & Maharashtra: Ragi, jowar, grapes, banana
Benefits of AgriPV
1. Dual Land Use Efficiency
- Simultaneous:
- Food production
- Energy generation
2. Increased Farmer Income
- Revenue streams:
- Sale of electricity
- Land leasing
- Revenue sharing
3. Environmental Benefits
- Reduced:
- Evapotranspiration (water loss)
- Improved:
- Soil moisture retention
- Protection from:
- Heat
- Hail
- Heavy rainfall
4. Energy & Rural Development
- Powers:
- Cold storage
- Food processing
- Irrigation systems
- Reduces:
- Diesel dependence
