The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PMKUSUM) Component A Scheme is a key initiative by the Indian Government to help farmers achieve energy and water security. This scheme aims to provide sustainable and affordable access to electricity to farmers for their irrigation needs and to enhance their income. It is a part of the larger PMKUSUM scheme which aims to boost the agricultural sector in India.
Under Component A of PMKUSUM, the government provides financial assistance to farmers for setting up solar pumps for irrigation. The government also offers a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Madhya Pradesh Power Management Company Limited (MPPMCL) for a period of 25 years. This agreement ensures that farmers receive electricity at a guaranteed rate of INR 3.07/kWh for the next 25 years. This rate is highly competitive and provides farmers with a reliable source of energy for their irrigation needs.
One of the key objectives of PMKUSUM Component A is to reduce the dependency of farmers on diesel-powered pumps and to help reduce air and water pollution. The use of solar energy for irrigation purposes helps to reduce carbon footprint and reduces the burden of electricity subsidies on the government.
In addition to providing financial assistance to farmers, PMKUSUM Component A also provides benefits to the DISCOMs. Solar power purchased under this component helps DISCOMs to meet their Renewable Energy Purchase Obligation (RPO) target and improves their financial health.
PMKUSUM Component A is a crucial step towards achieving the Indian Government’s commitment to generating 40% of the country’s power from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030. The scheme is helping farmers achieve energy and water security while also contributing to the government’s efforts to curb climate change.
In conclusion, PMKUSUM Component A is a beneficial initiative for both farmers and the DISCOMs. The scheme provides farmers with a reliable source of energy for their irrigation needs, helps reduce the burden of electricity subsidies on the government, and contributes to the country’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.