Agri-Photovoltaics (AgriPV)

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