Integrated solar power solutions provider Sunkind India Ltd is in discussions with farmers and project developers to establish agrivoltaic projects across Rajasthan, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh. Sunkind Founder and Managing Director Hanish Gupta said the company is currently involved in agrivoltaic projects and discussions in these three states. The company is supplying solar structures and is also exploring opportunities to participate in complete project partnerships. So far, most engagements have focused on supplying structures rather than directly partnering with farmers. However, discussions with farmers for potential projects are now underway.
Agrivoltaics Combine Agriculture and Solar Power
Agrivoltaic systems enable farmers to use the same land for both crop cultivation and solar power generation. Solar panels are installed above or alongside crops, allowing agricultural activity to continue while generating renewable electricity. The model can provide several benefits, including dual use of agricultural land, renewable electricity generation, reduced water consumption, improved crop microclimate, additional income through electricity sales or land leasing and lower dependence on conventional energy sources. Gupta said agriculture is gradually evolving from being an energy consumer to becoming an energy producer. By integrating solar power with farming, agrivoltaics can create additional income opportunities for farmers.
Solar Panels Can Improve Farm Microclimates
Agrivoltaic systems can also influence the conditions in which crops grow. The shade created by solar panels can help produce a cooler microclimate beneath the panels, potentially benefiting crops in hot and dry conditions. In addition, water used to clean the solar panels can be reused for irrigation, helping farmers reduce water wastage and operating costs. Therefore, agrivoltaics can potentially combine renewable energy generation with more efficient use of land and water resources.
Farmers Can Explore Multiple Revenue Models
According to Gupta, farmers can benefit from agrivoltaic projects through several models. They can lease their land for solar projects, invest directly in solar plants or participate in government-supported programmes such as PM-KUSUM, which can provide long-term and predictable payment opportunities. These models can create additional income streams while reducing farmers’ exposure to fluctuations in agricultural commodity prices.
Awareness and Trust Remain Key Challenges
Despite the potential benefits, Sunkind believes greater awareness and trust-building among farmers are necessary to accelerate agrivoltaic adoption. Gupta noted that the company currently remains more focused on structured supply engagements, while discussions around full project partnerships with farmers continue. Building greater awareness about project economics, land use, long-term returns and available government schemes could help farmers better understand the potential of agrivoltaic systems.
PM-KUSUM Could Support Solar Adoption in Agriculture
Government programmes such as PM-KUSUM could further support the integration of solar power into agriculture. According to Gupta, the scheme can help farmers reduce their dependence on diesel-powered equipment and unreliable grid electricity. Consequently, solar power can lower energy-related farm input costs while providing more predictable income opportunities. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, as discussions progress across Rajasthan, Odisha and Uttar Pradesh, Sunkind’s agrivoltaic initiatives could contribute to the wider adoption of solar energy in agriculture, creating a model that combines clean power generation, efficient land use and additional farmer income.
