Under the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0), plans for solar power generation capacity of 8000 MW have been finalized, marking a significant stride in the provision of electricity to farmers for irrigation in Maharashtra. Reputed companies have participated in the tender process, and upon receiving letters of intent, they are expected to develop projects within 18 months, ensuring 12 hours of daytime power supply to farmers.
Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced in the State Legislative Council that the tender process for 8000 MW solar power generation capacity has been successfully completed. Upon approval from the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), companies will be issued letters of intent before the model code of conduct comes into effect. The ambitious scheme aims to address the demand for daytime power supply to farmers for irrigation, making extensive land available under MSKVY 2.0.
As per the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis stated that the competitive tariff for power under the tenders ranges from Rs. 2.90 to Rs. 3.10 per unit. Presently, power is available at Rs. 7 per unit, provided to farmers at a subsidized rate of about Rs. 1.5 per unit, with the state government subsidizing the remaining Rs. 5.5. With the reduced cost of electricity through this scheme, the need for subsidies is expected to diminish significantly, potentially avoiding tariff hikes for industries.
The MSKVY 2.0, launched in April 2023, focuses on harnessing solar energy to provide daytime power specifically for agricultural purposes. Large-scale public land has been allocated for the scheme, and private land, where necessary, will be acquired at an annual rent of Rs. 50,000 per acre. The move aims to address the challenges faced by farmers during nighttime irrigation, catering to the longstanding demand for exclusive daytime electricity supply for agriculture pumps.
Central government endorsement of MSKVY 2.0, with instructions to other states for implementation, underscores its potential impact. A high-level delegation from Karnataka visited Maharashtra to study the scheme, and Rajasthan has also examined its viability.
