UPSC Mains – Explain the concept of “solar as a third crop.” How can this innovation contribute to promoting clean energy in rural areas while addressing the income of small and marginal farmers?

Introduction:

“Solar as a third crop” merges farming with solar energy, utilizing farmland for both agriculture and power generation. This innovative approach not only fosters clean energy adoption but also enhances income for small farmers through revenue diversification.

Body:

Solar Energy as a Third Crop: The concept involves integrating solar panels with farmland, with over 400 panels possible on a single acre. This energy, considered a “third crop,” is sold to power companies, providing an additional source of income. Pilot programs have demonstrated potential earnings of around Rs 1 lakh/acre, emphasizing the need for wider validation across sunny states.

Contributions to Clean Energy Promotion:

1. Renewable Energy Generation: Solar panels harness sunlight for electricity, contributing significantly to regional clean energy production, as seen in India’s Rewa Solar Park with a capacity of 750 MW.
2. Reduced Fossil Fuel Dependence: Solar panels help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, as exemplified by projects like the Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park, spanning thousands of acres and reducing dependence on coal power.
3. Positive Carbon Emission Impact: Solar as a third crop contributes to carbon emissions reduction, aligning with India’s goals for a 33-35% reduction by 2030, as demonstrated by the Kamuthi Solar Power Project in Tamil Nadu.

Solar Panels Generate Revenue for Small and Marginal Farmers:

1. Installation and Ownership Model: Farmers can own and benefit from the infrastructure, providing them with a dual revenue stream, as seen in the Kamuthi Solar Power Project.
2. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA): Developers lease land from farmers, ensuring secure revenue streams through agreements with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), as observed in the Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Project.
3. Dual Revenue Stream: The concept supports both agricultural cultivation beneath raised solar panels and solar lease payments, exemplified by the Charanka Solar Park in Gujarat.

Challenges:

1. Land Use Conflicts: Conflicts arise due to the limited availability of agricultural land for solar projects, leading to opposition from farmers.
2. Technical Expertise: Limited access to technical training in rural areas poses a challenge, with a majority of the population residing there.
3. Weather and Climate Variability: Regions with substantial rainfall may experience inconsistent energy generation from solar panels due to cloudy days.
4. Initial Infrastructure Costs: While the cost of solar panels has decreased, initial infrastructure costs remain a consideration for farmers.

Conclusion:

“Solar as a third crop” integrates clean energy and agriculture, benefitting both the environment and rural economies. This approach, generating clean energy on farmland, empowers small farmers with diversified income streams. Government and stakeholder support are crucial for driving sustainable rural development.

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