Wind Energy Investments Soar, PM-KUSUM Strengthens Solar Support for Farmers

India has witnessed significant growth in the renewable energy sector, with a rise in wind energy investments and an increase in the allocation of funds under the PM-KUSUM scheme. This growth reflects the country's commitment to expanding clean energy resources and supporting farmers' energy security through solarisation.

This was disclosed by Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy and Power, Shripad Yesso Naik, while responding to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

Dwelling on the wind energy sector, he noted that investments have surged in recent years. The estimated investments stood at INR 7,770 crore in FY 2021-22, INR 15,925 crore in FY 2022-23, and INR 22,771 crore in FY 2023-24. The figures are based on an estimated cost of INR 7 crore per MW of installed wind power capacity.

Further, speaking about the financial allocations under the PM-KUSUM scheme, he highlighted that the scheme, aimed at enhancing farmers’ energy security through solarisation, is demand-driven. Funds are released based on the progress of installation reported by the State Implementing Agencies (SIAs) and as per the provisions of the scheme guidelines.

The total funds allocated under the scheme in the last three financial years and the ongoing fiscal year (up to January 29, 2025) amount to INR 4,169.37 crore. Some of the major recipients of PM-KUSUM funds include Maharashtra, which received INR 1,153.90 crore in FY 2024-25, marking a substantial increase from INR 330.21 crore in FY 2023-24. Haryana received INR 199.50 crore in FY 2024-25, following INR 429.78 crore in the previous fiscal, while Rajasthan was allocated INR 280.01 crore in the current fiscal, compared to INR 49.41 crore in FY 2023-24. Gujarat also saw a sharp rise in funding, from INR 28.72 crore in FY 2023-24 to INR 47.96 crore in FY 2024-25. Other states, such as Uttar Pradesh (INR 91.66 crore), Karnataka (INR 81.25 crore), and Jharkhand (INR 49.62 crore), also received significant funding this fiscal year. However, several states, including Bihar, Telangana, and West Bengal, have yet to receive allocations under the scheme.

The government has also confirmed that PM-KUSUM provides special provisions for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers under its Component B and Component C (Individual Pump Solarisation). Funds are allocated based on applications received through State Implementing Agencies (SIAs), ensuring equitable distribution across various farmer categories.

With increasing financial support for wind energy and solar-based irrigation, the transition to clean energy is expected to accelerate, ensuring greater sustainability and energy security for the country.