Pradeep Kumar, from Petwar village in Haryana, had always been inclined towards farming after high school. However, in 2009, he decided to diversify by launching a business focused on solar panel installation after attending a government course on the technology.

Pradeep's initial customers were farmers who installed solar panels in their fields to power water pumps for irrigation. But, within months, the panels were stolen or damaged, causing dissatisfaction among farmers and deterring others from opting for solar installations.

In 2015, determined to resolve the issue, Pradeep approached local mechanics to brainstorm ideas. He considered moving the solar panels regularly back and forth from the field to the farmer’s home but realised the panels were heavy and could easily get damaged.

After extensive brainstorming, Pradeep came up with the idea of a solar panel mounted on a trolley. This innovative design allowed the panels to be attached to a tractor, easily moved to and from the fields, and safely stored at home when not in use.

Over the next four years, Pradeep and his team worked on creating prototypes, refining the design of the trolley. The initial two versions were not perfect, but persistence paid off when they finalised the third prototype in 2019.

With the successful prototype in hand, Pradeep launched his company, TG Solar Pumps. “The devices come in two sizes and carry solar panels which provide electricity of 2 HP and 10 HP,” says Pradeep.

This solution not only provides farmers with electricity but also opens up opportunities for additional income.

Haradwari, a farmer from Khaliyapur village, Uttar Pradesh, discovered the solar trolley through a YouTube video. Previously dependent on motors to pump water into his fields, he purchased the trolley to irrigate his crops without fear of theft.

“I purchased a trolley that holds 10 panels and generates 3 HP of energy,” Haradwari says. “We also started a flour grinding business, with the machines running on the solar panel from the trolley,” he shares.

Pradeep’s business has grown significantly, with over 25,000 trolleys delivered to farmers across India. His company’s success is fueled by word-of-mouth recommendations, online marketing, and showcasing the product at exhibitions.

The starting price for the solar trolley is Rs 25,000, which can vary depending on the customisation required by the farmer. Pradeep also offers a one-year free service for each unit sold.

Currently, Pradeep is working on a new version of the trolley that can be pulled by a bike, catering to farmers who do not own tractors.