PM-KUSUM: Shakti Pumps Bags ₹23.91Cr. Work Order From MEDA

shakti Pumps

Madhya Pradesh-based solar pump and motor manufacturer Shakti Pumps (India) Limited recently received a Letter of Award (LoA) from the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA). The company secured the award under Component B of the PM-KUSUM scheme to set up 877 Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping Systems (SPWPS) at various locations across Maharashtra. The work order is valued at approximately ₹23.91 crore (inclusive of GST).

Shakti Pumps said in a regulatory filing, “The project is expected to be completed within 120 days from the date of issue of the work order. The company will be responsible for designing, manufacturing, supplying, transporting, installing, testing, and commissioning the project.”

Rising Demand for Solar Cells Under PM-KUSUM

Recent data shared by Pralhad Joshi, Minister of New and Renewable Energy, and Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, suggests a rising demand for solar cells under the PM-KUSUM scheme. When asked about the current production and value of domestically manufactured solar cells and whether they meet existing demand, the minister replied: “At present, it is not mandatory to use domestically manufactured solar PV cells for all solar projects. However, for projects under CPSU Scheme Phase II, Components B & C of PM-KUSUM, and PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana—wherein government subsidies are provided—projects must use domestically manufactured solar PV cells and solar PV modules, as specified under these schemes.”

Explaining the surge in future demand for solar cells, he added in his written reply: “With the implementation of projects under CPSU Scheme Phase II, PM-KUSUM, and PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the government has created demand for domestically manufactured solar PV cells, which is expected to support domestic manufacturers. With a 500 GW target, the demand for solar cells is expected to increase exponentially.”

PM-KUSUM

Launched in March 2019, the PM-KUSUM scheme supports farmers by offering financial assistance for installing solar-powered irrigation systems, including solar pumps and grid-connected solar power plants. By shifting to solar energy, the scheme also helps reduce carbon emissions and improve energy access in rural agricultural areas. Under the scheme, the central government provides a subsidy of up to 30% or 50% of the total cost for installing standalone solar pumps and solarizing existing grid-connected agricultural pumps.