Mumbai: In a major boost to renewable energy and rural electrification, Maharashtra has completed solar power generation projects with a total capacity of 1,359 MW. As a result, over 2.14 lakh farmers across the state have begun receiving daytime power supply for their agricultural pumps.
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during a high-level review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House, Mumbai.
Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0 Gathers Momentum
The implementation of these projects is part of the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0), which was launched in April 2023 to provide reliable daytime electricity to farmers. The scheme aims to eliminate the need for a nighttime power supply, which often causes inconvenience to the farming community.
Fadnavis appreciated the efforts of the Energy Department, District Collectors, and all concerned officers for the swift and efficient execution of the project. He highlighted that MSKVY 2.0 is progressing at a rapid pace, with solar power projects totalling 15,284 MW still underway. Once completed, the scheme will have a cumulative capacity of 16,000 MW, making it the largest decentralised solar power generation initiative in the world.
Massive Investment and Job Creation in Rural Maharashtra
The scheme is expected to attract private investment of around Rs. 65,000 crore and generate employment for approximately 70,000 individuals in rural areas. As part of the initiative, around 40,000 acres of land are being prepared for solar installations, tenders have been issued, and work orders distributed to private developers. Efforts are also ongoing to upgrade the electricity grid to accommodate the influx of solar-generated power.
Affordable Electricity and Reduced Subsidy Burden
Under MSKVY 2.0, electricity will be made available to Mahavitaran at an average rate of three rupees per unit. This will significantly lower the subsidy burden on the state government for providing free power to agricultural pumps. Additionally, it will help reduce the cross-subsidy load currently borne by industrial consumers, thereby benefiting the industrial sector as well.
