Karnataka Plans To Boost Solar Energy In Buildings, Unveils Action Plan

Karnataka Plans To Increase Green-Rated Buildings By 20-30%

Karnataka has now planned to boost the usage of solar energy in its buildings. It has also planned to boost green buildings in the state. The state recently unveiled its ‘State Energy Efficiency Action Plan,’ outlining a strategic shift from conventional to solar-led electrification of buildings. 

The plan emphasizes the importance of BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) Star Ratings for Buildings, particularly green buildings. It can help to integrate features such as energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and renewable energy sources. The Karnataka government’s plan suggested, “Green buildings rating in India incorporates various features such as energy-efficient lighting, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. It includes the use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power.”

This rating system also evaluates the other sustainability aspects like water conservation, loss of habitat, any harm to the environment during the construction etc. Green-rated Buildings comply with ECBC and are at least 20 – 30% more energy efficient than conventional buildings.”

Energy saving from the strategies – Agriculture and Fisheries sector

The Karnataka government’s plan recommended, “To ensure a comprehensive impact, experts suggest framing government policies that encourage holistic green building practices rather than isolated measures like rainwater harvesting or solar PV. In the agriculture sector, the plan recommends transitioning from conventional diesel and electrical pumps to solar-powered pumps by 2031 and replacing standard pumps with energy-efficient alternatives.”

It also suggested, “Under PM-KUSUM Component C, Karnataka has made substantial progress, with solar water irrigation systems installations and ongoing projects. Additionally, the state aims to solarize agricultural feeders to power irrigation pump sets, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.”

Solar Powered Aerator

In its ambitious targets set for FY 2026, it included installing solar pumps and transitioning to energy-efficient pumps. The conversion of existing pumps to solar power under Component C is a key focus, aligning with the overall vision of sustainable agriculture practices.

A noteworthy case study in the report recommended, “Use of solar aerators, as used by the ‘SolarBee’ system in the USA. These aerators, powered by solar panels, demonstrate the potential to increase aquaculture pond production by up to 20%. The system’s energy-efficient design, including a 0.5 HP pump and electronic control features, aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.”

Furthermore, the Karnataka government’s plan sheds light on the energy-saving potential in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, estimating 0.395 MTOE and 0.541 MTOE for moderate and ambitious scenarios by FY2031. This underscores the importance of monitoring mechanisms to track and enhance energy efficiency in these critical sectors. Overall, Karnataka’s State Energy Efficiency Action Plan reflects a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach towards sustainable energy practices and environmental conservation.

No. of Pump sets and Electricity consumption (GWh)

On the status of progress of KUSUM scheme so far in the state, it mentions: 

• 319 nos. of Solar water irrigation systems have been installed under MNRE sanction dated 02.12.2019 under component B.
• Under MNRE sanction dated 13.01.2021, implementation of 1325 nos. of Solar water irrigation systems are under progress under component B.
• MNRE has sanctioned 10,000 nos. for CESC, 65,000 nos. for HESCOM & 1,75,000 nos. for BESCOM for solarization of agricultural feeders under PM-KUSUM, Component-C. Tendering is under progress.
• Solar pump under Component B- Installation of 3k pumps in moderate and 5k pumps in ambitious scenario.
• Conversion of existing pumps to solar powered under component C – through solarization of agriculture feeders.
• They have set the target to be achieved by FY 2026:
• Solar pump under Component B- Installation of 3k pumps in moderate and 5k pumps in ambitious scenario
• Energy efficient pumps-. Transition of 34k pumps in moderate scenario 50k pumps in ambitious scenarios.
• Conversion of existing pumps to solar powered under component C – through solarization of agriculture feeders. 

By FY 2026 it set the target of:

• Solar pump under Component B- Installation of 3k pumps in moderate and 5k pumps in ambitious scenario.
• Energy efficient pumps – Transition of 34k pumps in moderate scenario 50k pumps in ambitious scenarios.
• Conversion of existing pumps to solar powered under component C – through solarization of agriculture feeders.