Karnataka Starts Automatic Land Conversion for Renewable Energy Projects to Speed up Clean Power

Karnataka Starts Automatic Land Conversion for Renewable Energy Projects to Speed up Clean Power

January 24, 2026

The Karnataka government has launched a new automatic land conversion system that allows renewable energy projects to use agricultural land without waiting for long government approvals, aiming to boost clean energy investment and cut red tape. Under this new arrangement, developers of solar, wind, biomass, hybrid, energy storage and waste-to-energy projects can begin land use changes more quickly by filing required documents and paying fees, without needing prior permission from the deputy commissioner.

The system was introduced to simplify the process of converting farmland for renewable energy use, which until now required formal approval from revenue authorities—a step that often caused delays and increased costs for project developers. According to state officials, the move is expected to reduce corruption, speed up renewable energy deployment and make it easier for investors to start projects in Karnataka.

Under the revised rules, renewable energy developers must submit necessary applications and affidavits online, after which land conversion is processed automatically, typically within a set timeframe, rather than waiting for manual sign-offs. The aim is to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that previously slowed approvals for clean energy projects that are aligned with national and state targets for expanding renewable power generation.

State officials have said this new system will help Karnataka attract more investment in renewable energy infrastructure and meet ambitious clean energy goals by allowing projects to move forward more efficiently.