Solar Water Pumps for Agriculture in Bihar: Benefits, Cost & Subsidy

## Solar Irrigation Revolution in Bihar

For farmers across Bihar — from the fertile Gangetic plains of Saran and Champaran to the hilly regions of Munger — access to reliable irrigation is critical. Diesel pumps have long dominated, but rising fuel costs and erratic supply have made solar water pumps an increasingly attractive alternative.

How Solar Water Pumps Work

A solar water pump system consists of:

1. **Solar PV Array**: Panels generate DC electricity from sunlight 2. **Solar Pump Controller (VFD/MPPT)**: Converts and regulates power to the pump motor 3. **Submersible or Surface Pump**: Draws water from borewell, open well, or canal 4. **Water Storage Tank** (optional): For storing water during peak sunshine hours

Types of Solar Pumps for Agriculture

Surface Solar Pumps (0.5 HP to 5 HP) - Used for ponds, canals, and shallow water sources - Simpler installation, lower cost - Suitable for drip or sprinkler irrigation systems

Submersible Solar Pumps (1 HP to 10 HP) - Installed inside borewells/tube wells - Draws water from depths of 30–200 feet - Most common type for agricultural irrigation in Bihar

DC vs AC Solar Pumps - **DC pumps**: More efficient, no inverter needed, best for smaller systems - **AC pumps**: Compatible with standard pumps, requires VFD controller

PM-KUSUM Scheme: Solar Pump Subsidy for Bihar Farmers

Under the **PM Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)**, farmers in Bihar can get solar water pumps at highly subsidised rates:

• **Central Subsidy**: 30% of benchmark cost
• **State Subsidy** (Bihar government): 30% of benchmark cost
• **Farmer Contribution**: Only 40% of benchmark cost
• **Bank Loan Option**: Farmer contribution can be financed through Kisan Credit Card or agricultural loans

Benchmark Costs (approximate):

| Pump Capacity | Benchmark Cost | Farmer's Share (40%) | |--------------|----------------|----------------------| | 2 HP DC Pump | ₹1.5–1.8 Lakh | ₹60,000–₹72,000 | | 3 HP DC Pump | ₹2.0–2.5 Lakh | ₹80,000–₹1 Lakh | | 5 HP AC Pump | ₹3.0–3.5 Lakh | ₹1.2–1.4 Lakh | | 7.5 HP AC Pump | ₹4.0–5.0 Lakh | ₹1.6–2.0 Lakh |

How to Apply for PM-KUSUM in Bihar

1. Register on the **BREDA (Bihar Renewable Energy Development Agency)** portal 2. Submit documents: Aadhaar, land ownership papers, borewell details 3. Receive application approval and vendor selection 4. Pay your 40% contribution 5. Solar pump is installed by the empanelled vendor 6. Subsidy amount is disbursed directly to the vendor

Benefits Beyond Irrigation

• **Zero operating cost**: No diesel expenses
• **Income from surplus solar power**: Under PM-KUSUM Component A, farmers can sell surplus power to BSPHCL
• **Reduced carbon footprint**: Replace diesel generators
• **Reliability**: Operate even in remote areas without grid connection

EKOSYS Solar — Solar Pump Partner in Bihar

EKOSYS Solar is experienced in the design, supply, and installation of solar water pumping systems for agricultural, commercial, and institutional applications across Bihar. Our services include:

• System design based on water requirement and source depth
• Supply of tier-1 panels, MPPT controllers, and pumps
• Professional installation and commissioning
• Assistance with PM-KUSUM documentation and BREDA registration
• After-sales service and maintenance