The use of solar energy in agriculture can help Jharkhand save Rs 12,465 crore and prevent carbon dioxide emission of over 36.4 million tonnes in the next 15 years.
This was indicated in a document outlining a road map of energy transition in the sector that was unveiled by state agriculture minister Badal Patralekh at a function in Ranchi on Friday.
Considering that Jharkhand is a predominantly agricultural state despite its industrial tag, the Centre for Environment and Energy Development (CEED), Jharkhand Renewable Energy Development Agency (JREDA) and Central University of Jharkhand came up with the structural road map aided by constructive policy initiative, infrastructure and market support.
“It’s an important document as it chalks out a strategic path for increasing agro productivity,” Patralekh said.
Contrary to the popular conception that agriculture is a loss-making venture, it is actually a promising sector as it contributes 13 per cent to the state’s economy whereas it consumes less than 3 per cent of electricity, the document said, explaining why emphasis should be given on agriculture.
The energy consumption in agriculture was expected to increase at an annual rate of 12.09 per cent from 2017 to 2037, the document said, adding that power requirement for the sector would go up from 256 billion units (BU) in 2017 to at least 1,987 BU in 2037.
“This is a strong argument in favour of using renewable energy that can not only help manage the climate change impact caused by fossil fuel-based economies but also rejuvenate the agriculture sector,” CEED chief executive officer Ramapati Kumar said.
The report noted that solar energy usage in agriculture processes will help the state add solar capacity of 4,250MW in 15 years, ending 2037-38.
Solarisation of 2.34 lakh grid-connected pumps and installation of 4.05 lakh standalone off-grid solar pumps can cater to the demand of around 700MW power, it further said.
“As a state nodal agency, we are committed to promote infusion of renewable energy in every sphere of economic activity,” JREDA director K.K. Verma said.
