Punjab to Install 2,356 Agri Solar Pumps in Four Months

Chandigarh, December 7, 2024: In a major push toward sustainable farming, the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) will install 2,356 solar-powered pumps for agricultural use within the next four months.

Punjab's Minister for New and Renewable Energy Sources, Aman Arora, handed over work orders to three companies—M/s. AVI Appliances Pvt. Ltd., M/s. PV Power Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and M/s. Himalayan Solar Pvt. Ltd.—to execute this ambitious project.

Project Highlights

The pumps, with capacities of 3 HP, 5 HP, 7.5 HP, and 10 HP, will be installed to meet irrigation needs efficiently during daylight hours.
Farmers in dark zones (areas with over-exploited groundwater) will receive these solar pumps, provided they already have micro-irrigation systems like drip or sprinkler systems in place.
A subsidy scheme is in place to make these pumps more accessible:
- 60% subsidy for general category farmers.
- 80% subsidy for Scheduled Caste (SC) farmers.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Aman Arora emphasized that the initiative will:

Eliminate the need for nighttime irrigation, providing convenience to farmers.
Reduce fuel costs and result in zero carbon emissions, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Transparent Selection Process

The companies were selected through a transparent and competitive bidding process, ensuring efficiency and accountability. The entire project is expected to be completed within four months.

Commitment to Farmers' Welfare

Arora directed PEDA officials to continue efforts for installing more solar pumps, enhancing benefits for the agricultural community.

Key officials, including PEDA Chief Executive Officer Sandeep Hans and Director M.P. Singh, along with representatives of the selected companies, were present during the handover ceremony.

This initiative marks a significant step toward greener energy solutions and a sustainable future for Punjab's agriculture sector.