India is an agricultural country, and farmers often face land-use conflicts between growing crops and installing solar panels. Agrivoltaics solves this by combining farming and solar energy on the same land. In this blog, we’ll explore agrivoltaics farming system in India, its benefits, costs, and crop productivity impact.
🔆 What is Agrivoltaics?
Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV) is a dual-use system where solar panels are installed above farmland while crops are cultivated underneath. The panels are elevated or spaced to allow sunlight for both plants and energy generation.
🌍 Benefits of Agrivoltaics in India
- Dual Income for Farmers → Earn from crops + electricity.
- Reduced Water Loss → Panels shade crops, reducing evaporation.
- Higher Productivity → Some crops grow better under partial shade (e.g., tomatoes, chilies, leafy greens).
- Land Efficiency → Maximizes agricultural land use.
💰 Cost of Agrivoltaics Farming System in India
- Installation cost per acre → ₹40–50 Lakh (for ~100kW capacity).
- Earnings → Farmers can earn ₹8–10 lakh annually from power sale, plus crop income.
- ROI → 5–7 years payback.
📈 Successful Agrivoltaics Projects in India
- Maharashtra & Karnataka → Pilot projects with vegetable crops.
- Punjab → Agrivoltaic trials for wheat and paddy.
- MNRE (Govt. of India) → Plans to expand Agri-PV under renewable energy schemes.
🙋 FAQs about Agrivoltaics
Q1. Which crops are best for agrivoltaics farming?
👉 Shade-tolerant crops like leafy vegetables, tomatoes, chilies, and medicinal plants perform well.
Q2. Do solar panels reduce crop yields?
👉 In some cases, partial shade improves yield by protecting crops from heat stress.
Q3. How much land is needed for 1 MW agrivoltaics?
👉 Around 4–5 acres, depending on crop and panel structure.
Q4. Can small farmers adopt agrivoltaics?
👉 Yes, but government subsidies or community models make it more affordable.
Conclusion
The agrivoltaics farming system in India is a game-changer, helping farmers earn more while promoting renewable energy. With proper government support, this dual-use model could transform rural livelihoods and India’s clean energy future.
