Koraput: Farmland in Odisha will now grow not just paddy, millets and vegetables, but also electricity. For the first time in the state, a new model called Agrivoltaics is starting in Koraput district, where farmers will earn three incomes from one piece of land – Kharif, Rabi and solar power.
As per reports, the pilot project has been set up at Kulabi panchayat under Nandpur block. Over the vast farmland, 1,735 solar panels have been installed in rows. While crops will grow on the ground, solar energy will be harnessed from above. The project aims to produce 1 MW of solar power per day.
Cultivation of high-value crops like ginger, turmeric, potato, onion, ragi, pointed gourd, cucumber, litchi, guava, flowers, strawberry, avocado and kiwi will be done under and around the panels. What makes this model unique is its ownership. Normally, a private company sets up a solar plant on farmland and pays rent to farmers. But in this case, the plant will be owned by the farmers themselves.
The dream project is being implemented by Alekh Mahima FPO, comprising 513 women members, along with 5 landowners. They will share the profit from both crops and power. A 25-year power purchase agreement has been signed with GRIDCO.
The project is scheduled to be commissioned in September 2026.As per estimates, the cost to build the plant is Rs 4.5 to 5.6 crore. The collective is expected to earn around Rs 50 lakh per year from power sales. After deducting running costs of about Rs 1.6 crore over 25 years, the collective will retain about Rs 8 crore over the contract period.
The project is set to become operational this month. Once successful, the model will ensure year-round income, meet food demand and help resolve the energy crisis.
