PM-KUSUM Component C subsidy to solarise existing grid-connected agriculture pump and sell surplus power.
4 Answers
Yes, if you already have a grid-connected electric pump you can solarise it under PM-KUSUM Component C instead of buying a new standalone pump. The scheme adds a solar panel system to your existing pump so you irrigate using solar power by day, and any surplus electricity can be sold to the DISCOM for extra income. The assistance pattern is similar to Component B, about 30 percent central plus a state share, with the farmer paying the balance, often part-financed by a bank loan. Apply through your state PM-KUSUM portal or DISCOM, with your existing connection details, land records, Aadhaar and bank passbook. Confirm the current farmer share and whether your state offers individual pump solarisation or the feeder-level option.
The selling-surplus part depends on a net metering arrangement with your DISCOM, and not every state has this active for farm pumps yet. Ask the DISCOM whether they will buy your extra units and at what rate before you count on that income. For me the bigger gain was just reliable daytime water.
Keep your existing connection in good standing, no pending dues, before applying for Component C. The DISCOM checks the live connection details against your application. I cleared a small old arrear first, otherwise the file would have stalled at verification.
Find out early whether your state runs individual pump solarisation or only the feeder-level option, because they work very differently. In feeder-level the DISCOM solarises the whole farm feeder and you may not own panels at all. My state offered only the feeder route, so the individual application was not relevant for me.