Karnataka to Boost Solar Power Capacity, Says Energy Minister K.J. George
Chikkamagaluru, Aug. 15 — Karnataka will expand its renewable energy capacity with a major focus on environment-friendly solar projects, Energy Minister and Chikkamagaluru District In-charge Minister K.J. George announced on Thursday.
Speaking after offering prayers at Belavadi Lake in his constituency, George said the state government aims to significantly enhance solar power generation, with special emphasis on farmer participation and long-term sustainability.
Expansion of Pavagada Solar Park
The minister revealed that the Pavagada Solar Park in Tumakuru district, which currently produces 2,050 megawatts (MW) of electricity, will see an additional 2,000 MW capacity. Land will be leased directly from farmers, who will receive monthly lease payments from the government.
“This initiative will not only increase our renewable energy output but also provide a steady income stream for farmers,” George said.
Kusum-C Scheme to Solarize Agriculture
Under the Kusum-C scheme, the government plans to generate 2,500 MW by solarizing agricultural feeders. Private investors will build and operate the infrastructure, supplying electricity directly to farmers’ pump sets. The project is expected to draw ₹10,000 crore in private investment.
The government is also set to establish a 2,000 MW pumped storage facility at the Sharavathi hydroelectric project site. This system will store surplus solar energy produced during the day for use at night. The proposal has already received in-principle approval from both the state and central wildlife boards.
Economic Empowerment Through Five Guarantees
George also underscored the success of the state government’s five guarantee schemes, which he said have been instrumental in improving household incomes and supporting economic growth.
“These guarantees are putting approximately ₹5,000 a month into the hands of each family, which is directly boosting the state’s economy,” he said.
Officials Present at the Event
The announcement was made in the presence of Chikkamagaluru MLA H.D. Thammayya, former MLC Gayatri Shantegowda, KADA Chairman Dr. K.P. Anshumanth, State Environment Expert Valuation Committee Chairman A.N. Mahesh, District Guarantee Implementation Authority Chairman M.C. Shivanand Swamy, District Commissioner C.N. Meena Nagaraj, District Panchayat CEO H.S. Keerthana, District Police Chief Dr. Vikram Amate, and Tahsildar Reshma Shetty.
Key Quotes
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K.J. George: “This initiative will not only increase our renewable energy output but also provide a steady income stream for farmers.”
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K.J. George: “Through the Kusum-C scheme, we are bringing in ₹10,000 crore private investment to solarize agricultural feeders and empower rural communities.”
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K.J. George: “The five guarantees are putting approximately ₹5,000 a month into the hands of each family, which is directly boosting the state’s economy.”
