The methodology of research undertaken is in the form of an explorative study of the legislative framework and the industrial setup of the electricity sector with a view to formulate viable solutions and recommendations to improve competition and consumer choices. It entails an in-depth analysis of the Electricity Act 2003 and its allied rules and regulations, viewed from the lens of competition and consumer protection policies of the country, and attempts to harmonize its provisions with the existing antitrust enforcement regime under the Competition Act 2002. It also examines the judicial pronouncements and jurisprudential developments relating to the inter-regulatory control over the sector between the authorities under the Electricity Act 2003 and other regulatory bodies.  It further draws inspiration from foreign jurisdictions which are ahead in terms of privatizing the electricity sector and comparing their models of enforcing and regulating competition within the industry.

The initiative aims to create awareness and enhance understanding about solar solutions for agriculture, especially farm irrigation. In order to achieve the same, CAG is working towards disseminating information around existing schemes, policies and subsidies that support solarisation of agriculture. The efforts further aim to set a narrative on how solarising agriculture can help meet climate goals (energy transition) for Tamil Nadu.   

Local media engagement: CAG in association with its CSO partners disseminate video messages and content through local cable television channels and print media in Trichy Salem and Tiruvannamalai districts. The video messages bring-out successful solar stories from their own area and involve experts to detail out existing solar incentives for farmers.

Industry Webinar: To bring in the voices of farmers, solar developers & experts of the solar agriculture industry and identify gaps & opportunities for solarising agriculture. The webinar discusses the successes and barriers in deploying solar, focusing on the challenges faced by energy companies in the agriculture sector in integrating solar for small and agri users. The panel also explores solutions for a way forward.

Farmer consultations: Farmers are aware of what solar energy is and how to use it but they are not well informed of current schemes, benefits and processes to apply for solar subsidies. Therefore, farmer consultations are a key as we provide them the info about how and where to apply for subsidy and we will also raise their awareness and knowledge about the multi-layered benefits of solar. In addition to  solar pumps, it is important to introduce farmers to solar dryers, solar storage and other solar applications. 

Social media communications: Dissemination of the following messages through various social media platforms including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, among others: (a) Reviewable energy and farming are a winning combination, (b) Economic saving of replacing diesel pumps with solar, (c) Cheaper and improved sources of energy to power agri livelihoods.