PM-KUSUM 2.0 to blend food and energy security through agri-photovoltaics
The government's upgraded PM-KUSUM 2.0 programme aims to achieve a sustainable balance between food and energy security, according to a top official. The revised scheme will prioritise agri-photovoltaics—a model where solar panels are installed on farmland without hindering agricultural production.
Under this approach, farmers can continue cultivating crops while generating renewable energy from the same land. The dual-use model is designed to address concerns that large-scale solar installations might reduce cultivable area and harm food output.
The 2.0 version represents a shift from the original PM-KUSUM framework, incorporating lessons learned and stakeholder feedback to create a more balanced approach to India's renewable energy and agricultural goals.
