Solar Triumph: MSKVY 2.0’s 8000 MW Initiative Propels Maharashtra Towards Agricultural Sustainability

Mumbai, 2nd March 2024: Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has revealed the success story of Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0 (MSKVY 2.0) in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. The initiative, focused on harnessing solar energy, is set to revolutionize the agricultural sector by providing farmers with 12 hours of daytime renewable energy for irrigation.

Under MSKVY 2.0, tenders have been meticulously finalized for the generation of 8000 MW of solar power. Esteemed companies have actively participated in the tender process, demonstrating a commitment to developing projects within 18 months after receiving letters of intent. Once completed, this ambitious endeavor is expected to supply farmers in Maharashtra with uninterrupted power for irrigation during daylight hours, ushering in a new era of sustainability.

Hon. DCM Devendra Fadnavis highlighted the critical need for daytime power supply in the agricultural sector, prompting the allocation of extensive land under MSKVY 2.0. The overwhelming response to the tender process for solar power generation on this allocated land has resulted in the completion of tenders for 8000 MW. Letters of intent are poised for issuance pending approval from the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC), and these approvals are anticipated before the onset of the model code of conduct. Subsequently, the approved companies are expected to execute their projects within the stipulated 18-month timeline.

Thanks to MSKVY 2.0, solar power will be channeled to the majority of agriculture feeders. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the power would be available at a competitive tariff ranging from Rs. 2.90 to Rs. 3.10 per unit, as per the tender submissions. Presently, power is accessible at Rs. 7 per unit, provided to farmers at a subsidized rate of approximately Rs. 1.5 per unit, incurring a subsidy of Rs. 5.5. This subsidy, funded by the state government and cross-subsidies on industrial tariffs, is set to reduce significantly with the introduction of more cost-effective solar power. Consequently, there will be no necessity to escalate power tariffs for industries, making them more competitive.

The success of MSKVY 2.0 has garnered attention on a national scale, with the Central government adopting and encouraging other states to implement this transformative initiative. High-level delegations from Karnataka and Rajasthan have visited Maharashtra to study and replicate the success of MSKVY 2.0.

Launched in April 2023, MSKVY 2.0 has dedicated its mission to generate solar power specifically for daytime irrigation. Public land has been generously provided for the scheme, supplemented by private land wherever necessary on an annual rent basis of Rs. 50,000 per acre. This initiative addresses the persistent demand for daytime electricity for agricultural pumps, offering a more sustainable and efficient solution for farmers.