Introduction

The PM KUSUM Scheme in Telangana is transforming the future of farming through solar energy. Farmers can now lower their irrigation costs, generate renewable power, and earn a steady income by selling surplus electricity. Moreover, the scheme encourages rural sustainability while helping the state meet its clean-energy goals.

What Is PM KUSUM Scheme?

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). It aims to:

• Promote solar energy adoption in the agricultural sector.
• Reduce farmers’ dependency on costly diesel and unstable grid power.
• Encourage decentralized renewable energy production.
• Provide farmers with new revenue opportunities through energy sales.

In short, the PM KUSUM Yojana helps farmers install solar plants or pumps on their land and earn additional income while contributing to green growth.

PM KUSUM Telangana Overview

In Telangana, the Telangana Green Energy Development Corporation Limited (TGREDCO) is leading the implementation of this mission. The state is actively promoting decentralized solar power generation under the PM KUSUM scheme.

Key Highlights

• Target Capacity: 4,000 MW (4 GW) of small-scale solar projects.
• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): 25 years with Telangana DISCOMs.
• Tariff Rate: ₹ 3.13 per kWh (proposed).
• Eligible Land: Barren or uncultivable areas within 5 km of a 33/11 kV substation.
• Participation Models: Individual farmers, cooperatives, FPOs, SHGs, and private developers.

Thanks to this initiative, unused farmland can become an income-producing solar asset that supports both farmers and the environment.

Components of PM KUSUM Scheme

🔹 Component A — Grid-Connected Solar Power Plants

Farmers or developers can install 500 kW to 2 MW solar plants on agricultural or barren land. The generated power is supplied directly to the grid under a long-term PPA. Additionally, landowners can lease their land to developers and earn fixed annual rent for 25 years.

🔹 Component B — Standalone Solar Pumps

This component enables the installation of off-grid solar pumps for irrigation. As a result, farmers reduce dependency on diesel and avoid power-cut interruptions.

🔹 Component C — Solarization of Existing Grid Pumps

Existing grid-connected pumps are upgraded with solar panels. Consequently, farmers can feed excess power into the grid and receive payment for the surplus. This not only saves energy costs but also reduces the government’s subsidy burden.

Benefits of PM KUSUM for Telangana Farmers

🌾 Dual Income Opportunities

Farmers can either generate and sell electricity or lease their land for solar development. Therefore, they gain a reliable source of income for decades.

⚡ Lower Irrigation Costs

Solar pumps cut down irrigation expenses drastically. Furthermore, they ensure continuous water supply without depending on erratic power schedules.

🌍 Cleaner Environment

By replacing diesel pumps with solar systems, farmers contribute to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions.

🧱 Better Land Utilization

Barren and uncultivable lands are now being transformed into productive spaces. In addition, local communities benefit from jobs created in construction and maintenance.

🏦 Financial Stability

With guaranteed PPAs and predictable income, farmers can plan their finances confidently and even access green loans from banks.

Eligibility Criteria (Telangana)

To qualify for PM KUSUM Telangana, applicants must meet these conditions:

• Must be a farmer, FPO, SHG, Panchayat, or cooperative society.
• Land must be barren, uncultivable, or legally leased.
• The project location should be within 5 km of a 33/11 kV substation.
• Solar capacity should range between 500 kW and 2 MW.
• Applicants must hold valid ownership or lease documents.

Why PM KUSUM Matters for Telangana’s Future

Telangana has immense solar potential due to its abundant sunlight and agricultural landscape. The PM KUSUM Telangana initiative is paving the way for:

• Energy independence for rural communities.
• Reduced electricity subsidy burden on the state.
• New employment opportunities in green energy.
• Progress toward India’s 500 GW renewable energy goal by 2030.

As a result, farmers become energy producers and key contributors to the nation’s sustainability mission.