KUSUM-C Scheme
The KUSUM-C scheme, recently inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, aims to transform the agricultural power supply in Karnataka. This initiative focuses on providing reliable daytime electricity to farmers, enhancing their productivity and reducing energy wastage. It is part of a broader effort to increase the state’s electricity generation capacity by 2030.
Overview of KUSUM-C Scheme
The KUSUM-C scheme is designed to supply farmers with seven hours of daytime electricity. This is achieved through solar power, which is generated at local substations. The initiative includes the solarisation of 389 substations, which will collectively produce 2,396 megawatts (MW) of electricity. This power will support 1,555 agricultural feeders and benefit over 632,000 pump sets.
Government Support and Subsidies
The Karnataka government is committed to subsidising farmers’ agricultural pump sets with ₹19,000 crore. This subsidy will ensure that farmers can access affordable energy without disruption. The KUSUM-C scheme also offers an 80% subsidy for solar power generation on farms. This includes a 50% state subsidy and a 30% central subsidy, making solar energy more accessible.
Electricity Generation Goals
Since the current government took office, it has generated an additional 4,000 MW of electricity. The state’s total capacity now stands at 35,000 MW, with a target to reach 60,000 MW by 2030. This ambitious plan aims to meet the growing energy demands of the agricultural sector and beyond.
Smart Meter Implementation
As part of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, the state plans to install prepaid smart meters in government offices. This initiative aims to enhance energy management and efficiency. The central government supports this move by offering a 60% subsidy for energy infrastructure development and ₹900 per smart meter.
Environmental Impact
The KUSUM-C scheme promotes decentralised solar power generation, which is environmentally friendly. By generating electricity locally, the initiative reduces reliance on fossil fuels and mitigates the impact of power shortages. Areas like Pavagada are already seeing solar power production, with plans for expansion on additional land.
Community Engagement
The scheme has garnered positive responses from farmers and local officials. The government’s efforts in providing free electricity to 1.64 lakh families under the Gruha Jyoti scheme demonstrate its commitment to improving rural electrification and supporting agricultural communities.
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