Are solar-powered irrigation systems sustainable?

Solar-powered irrigation systems (SPIS) are a clean technology option for irrigation, allowing the use solar energy for water pumping, replacing fossil fuels as energy source, and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from irrigated agriculture. The sustainability of SPIS greatly depends on how water resources are managed.

Should irrigation systems be powered with solar energy?

Powering irrigation systems with solar energy is a reliable and environmentally sustainable option in a growing number of contexts. Solar-based irrigation systems can be scaled to meet diverse energy demands and can contribute to a decoupling of growth in irrigated land areas from fossil fuel use, while improving livelihoods.

Should solar irrigation pumping systems be regulated?

The regulatory regime also needs to be conducive to market development and natural resource considerations such as water extraction rates. Several programmes and initiatives consider solar irrigation pumping systems as an energy generation infrastructure that could feed into the grid when not being utilised for irrigation.

Are solar irrigation systems a good investment?

Solar irrigation systems avoid the use of dirty fuel and improve access to irrigation remote rural areas where neither electricity nor diesel is available. Given that the capital investment costs for solar-powered irrigation pumps are much higher than for diesel or electric pumps, they have not yet become widespread.

What is solar-powered irrigation?

Solar-powered irrigation is a game-changing solution for modern agriculture. By harnessing the sun’s energy, farmers can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and protect the environment. Whether for small-scale farms or large agricultural operations, this system provides a reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable way to irrigate crops.

What is a solar-powered irrigation system (Spis)?

In a solar-powered irrigation systems (SPIS), electricity is generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and used to operate pumps for the abstraction, lifting and/or distribution of irrigation water. SPIS can be applied in a wide range of scales, from individual or community vegetable gardens to large irrigation schemes.