Solar Energy in Indian Agriculture: A Study on the Transition from Fossil Fuels to Sustainable Irrigation

Abstract

Addressing the environmental and economic impacts of groundwater irrigation in India is crucial for a sustainable agricultural future. This study assesses the effects of use of electric and diesel tube wells for irrigation, which are major contributors to carbon emissions due to their high energy consumption in India. Governmental initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) scheme and community-based renewable energy cooperatives like The Solar Pump Irrigators' Cooperate Enterprise (SPICE) in Dhundi village could be pivotal in promoting solar irrigation and helping shift towards renewable fuels. These initiatives offer financial incentives and foster community participation, making solar technology more accessible and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. This study examines the potential of solar-powered irrigation pumps as an alternative, focusing on initiatives like PM-KUSUM scheme and SPICE in Dhundi village, and explores whether synergetic approaches could provide optimal solutions. This research also investigates how the local transition from fossil fuels to solar energy could also contribute to India's pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) " Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all".

The study employs qualitative methods, collecting data through semi-structured interviews, later analyzed using a thematic approach and document analysis. The analysis reveals that transitioning to solar pumps can markedly reduce India's carbon footprint, boost crop yields, and enhance farmers' incomes. However, challenges such as high initial costs and the need for technical expertise persist. The research underscores the necessity of coordinated efforts from government bodies, financial institutions, and other stakeholders to overcome these barriers. This investigation highlights the importance of sustained support for renewable energy initiatives to achieve economic and environmental sustainability in India's agricultural sector, thus contributing to the global pursuit of SDG 7.