Solar Agri-Feeder Scheme Benefits 8 Lakh Farmers in Maharashtra; Capacity Expansion Planned

The Solar Agri-Feeder Scheme in Maharashtra has already benefited around 8 lakh farmers, providing them with affordable daytime electricity for irrigation and agricultural operations. Speaking in the state assembly on March 10, 2026, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the state has successfully completed 4,000 MW of solar capacity under the agricultural feeder programme, which is designed to power farm electricity feeders through solar energy.

The government now plans to scale up the Solar Agri-Feeder Scheme by an additional 10,000 MW, significantly expanding solar-powered electricity supply to the agricultural sector. According to the chief minister, the initiative aims to ensure a reliable daytime power supply for nearly 75% of farmers in the state, reducing dependence on conventional electricity and improving irrigation efficiency.

The solarisation of agricultural feeders allows electricity to be generated locally near substations and delivered directly to farm pumps during the day. This model helps reduce transmission losses and grid pressure while enabling farmers to irrigate crops during daylight hours. Complementing the programme, the state also runs the Maagel Tyala Saur Krushi Pump Yojana, which provides solar-powered agricultural pumps to farmers.

Officials highlighted that the Solar Agri-Feeder Scheme has gained strong farmer response and even received international recognition from the International Solar Alliance, along with multiple global awards. The next phase of the programme is expected to focus on battery storage systems, enabling surplus solar power to be stored and used later, further strengthening grid integration and rural energy access.

With solar adoption accelerating across agriculture, initiatives like the Solar Agri-Feeder Scheme demonstrate how renewable energy can improve farm productivity while supporting India’s broader clean-energy transition.

Resource: Hindustan Times

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