Maharashtra To Commission 1,071 MW Solar Power Projects, To Benefit Around 3 Lakh Farmers

In a major push towards clean energy and sustainable agriculture, the Maharashtra government is set to commissionf 1,071 MW solar power projects under the ambitious Mukhyamantri Solar Energy Project 2.0.

The initiative, led by Mahanirmithi (Maharashtra State Electricity Generating Company Ltd.), aims to provide uninterrupted daytime electricity to farmers for irrigation, reduce reliance on conventional power, and curb carbon emissions.

The state government believes this move will directly benefit three lakh farmers across the state, enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting economic self-reliance.

“The state government's goal is to reduce dependence on conventional energy and reduce carbon emissions by providing uninterrupted power supply to farmers for irrigation during the day and increase agricultural productivity,” the official statement noted.

Mahanirmithi, a leading state-owned power utility with a diverse portfolio spanning thermal, hydro, wind and solar, will implement these decentralised projects in collaboration with GEAPP India (Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet).

Backed by The Rockefeller Foundation, IKEA Foundation and Bezos Earth Fund, GEAPP will offer project monitoring and a digital dashboard to track progress from land acquisition to construction in real time.

The decentralised solar units, ranging from 0.5 MW to 25 MW will be installed within 5–10 km of agricultural substations under the Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini Yojana 2.0.

This forms part of ‘Mission 2025’, which aims to solarise 30 per cent of agricultural feeders within the next two years.

A strategic joint committee comprising all stakeholders will steer the project’s timely execution.

Training on the digital dashboard will be provided, and new employment opportunities are expected to arise through the implementation phase.

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