Maharashtra Launches Solarization of Lift Irrigation

The Government of Maharashtra (GoM) has undertaken the process of solarization of Lift Irrigation Schemes that supports the agricultural regions. These regions could not be promoted through the traditional irrigation system because of geographical constraints. Furthermore, the problem of forest clearance does not permit the implementation of the traditional methods of irrigation in some region. They also serve regions that could not make full use of the water that is assigned to them from interstate rivers.

To boost the well-being of farmers and increase agricultural income, the GoM provides electrical tariffs subsidies to the LIS that has been fixed by the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission. With such a vast area coming under the WRD banner, it has been seeking solar power for these schemes, keeping the traditional means of energy at bay, and thereby adopting sustainable development. This is in tune with the vision of the central government in obtaining 43% of its energy needs through non-conventional sources by 2030.

Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Co. Ltd. (MSEDCL) shall be the implementing agency for this scheme. For their future power supplies and to meet the RPO, MSEDCL will buy up to 1,052 MW of solar power from grid-connected projects to be developed on WRD lands through an open competitive online auction process with reverse auction.

The successful bidders shall enter into a Power Purchase Agreement for a period of 25 years with MSEDCL. The selected bidders are strictly responsible for design, finance engineering, construction, operation, and maintenance of the projects as per the terms and conditions mentioned in the PPA.

The state provides financial assistance of ₹3.2 crore/MW, paid in three installments according to the completion stages of the project, to support these projects, aimed at ensuring that the work is carried out satisfactorily and completes on time with a minimum capacity utilization factor (CUF) of 24%.

The approved projects will focus on commercially proven solar PV technologies, such as crystal silicon or thin film modules. The move of Maharashtra to have its LIS solarized is a strategic initiative to contribute towards the cause of clean energy, relieve the subsidy burden on the state exchequer, and contribute towards the sustainable development of agriculture.