How agriPV can turn India’s farms into dual-purpose powerhouses

India’s push toward renewable energy is increasingly converging with agriculture through agrivoltaics (AgriPV), a model that enables farms to produce both crops and solar power simultaneously. As the country targets massive solar capacity expansion, pressure on land has intensified, making dual-use solutions more critical than ever.

AgriPV involves installing solar panels above or alongside crops, allowing farming activities to continue beneath. This approach transforms farmland into “dual-purpose powerhouses,” generating clean electricity while sustaining agricultural output. Experts say the model not only resolves land-use conflicts but also enhances overall land productivity by combining food and energy production on the same plot.

Recent policy momentum is accelerating adoption. Government schemes like PM-KUSUM are being expanded to promote solarisation of agriculture, with increased funding aimed at improving farmers’ income and energy security. At the same time, research institutions are developing tools and frameworks to scale AgriPV from pilot projects to commercially viable systems.

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The benefits extend beyond energy generation. Solar panels can create a microclimate that reduces heat stress and water loss, helping certain crops grow more efficiently. Farmers also gain an additional revenue stream by selling surplus electricity, reducing dependence on traditional income sources.

However, challenges remain. High installation costs, lack of standardised policies, and uncertainties about crop compatibility continue to limit large-scale deployment. Despite these hurdles, AgriPV is emerging as a key solution to balance India’s food security and clean energy goals, offering a sustainable pathway to transform rural economies while addressing climate change.

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