What Changes Did Maha CM Recommend for the Solar Agri Pump Scheme?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Revised guidelines for the Solar Agricultural Pump Scheme to meet farmer needs.
- MahaTransco reported significant profits, showing strong performance.
- By 2030, Maharashtra targets 58% renewable energy in its energy mix.
- Farmers will receive 16,000 MW of solar energy by 2026.
- Pumped storage projects will enhance energy availability and grid stability.
Mumbai, Sep 19 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed the state Energy department to revise the guidelines for the Solar Agricultural Pump Scheme to align with the farmers' requests.
During a gathering with the Board of Directors of the Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB), he emphasized that adjustments in the scheme are necessary to meet farmers' needs.
The Chief Minister urged the energy department to consider the challenges faced by farmers while formulating the new guidelines.
He also highlighted the importance of enhancing communication between the MSEB Holding Company, the state-operated electricity distribution entity Mahavitaran, the electricity transmission firm MahaTransco, and the generation company MahaGenco to expedite project implementation.
According to CM Fadnavis, MahaTransco reported profits nearing Rs 1,800 crore for the financial year 2024-25, successfully meeting the standards set by the Maharashtra State Electricity Regulatory Commission.
He expressed optimism that MahaTransco would continue to excel in the upcoming year.
CM Fadnavis also congratulated Mahavitaran for achieving the top rank with 93 out of 100 points in the evaluation conducted by the Union Ministry of Power.
Previously, he indicated that by 2030, 58% of Maharashtra's energy will stem from renewable sources.
By 2026, 16,000 MW of electricity allocated to farmers will be sourced entirely from solar energy, which is expected to lower subsidy costs on electricity tariffs and reduce industry tariffs annually for the next five years.
Regarding energy storage via pumped storage hydro projects, the Chief Minister mentioned that Maharashtra plans to develop projects totaling 75,000 MW, with 7,000 MW of generation commencing within two years.
This initiative will provide green energy continuously and strengthen the national grid, he added.