Anand Jain, a farmer from Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, grows crops like strawberries, lettuce, and broccoli under solar panels on his 16-acre farm using agrivoltaics.

By raising solar panels above his crops, Anand cultivates his land and generates electricity. This harnesses the abundance of sunlight without sacrificing fertile land.

His farm generates up to 25,000 units of electricity every day. Under an agreement with the state government, he is selling the power at a fixed rate of Rs 3.07 for the next 25 years.

The solar panels are set up 11 to 13 feet high, designed to get enough sunlight and allow farming to continue smoothly underneath.

The farm’s layout, including poles and panel arrangements, accommodates machinery and promotes efficient maintenance and farm management.

This large-scale agrivoltaic project not only meets local energy needs but also sets a precedent for sustainable and integrated farming practices in rural India.

Anand’s strategic use of shade from panels reduces soil evaporation, helping to conserve water while catering to the varying sunlight needs of different crops.

“Farmers are losing land due to the expansion of solar power projects. This leads to their displacement and loss of livelihood. Agrivoltaics is a way to respond to land-use challenges associated with solar power projects.” – Anand Jain

“Agrivoltaics gives a chance for farmers to secure their financial future, engage in sustainable practices, and contribute to broader environmental goals,” he adds.