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Green technology

Solar-Powered Irrigation Gains Momentum in Balochistan

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Stakeholders in Balochistan, Pakistan are calling for the adoption of clean energy solutions to address declining groundwater levels and aquifer stress. The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has introduced two digital tools, Solar Suitability Mapping (SSM) and the Solar Irrigation Pump Sizing Tool (SIP-ST), to assist farmers and policymakers in utilizing solar power for irrigation. These tools were showcased at two workshops held in Balochistan, which were organized by IWMI with support from the European Union, the Government of Balochistan, and CGIAR's Climate Action and Policy Innovation programs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The IWMI introduced two digital tools, Solar Suitability Mapping (SSM) and the Solar Irrigation Pump Sizing Tool (SIP-ST), to assist farmers and policymakers in utilizing solar power for irrigation.
  • Solar-powered irrigation can replace expensive and harmful diesel or electric tubewells, saving energy and helping the environment.
  • Experts emphasized the strong link between water and energy, highlighting the need for strong cooperation between science, policy, and local communities to address water shortages and climate change.
  • The workshops focused on using water more efficiently, with experts proposing the development of a Water Productivity Atlas for Balochistan to get the most benefit from every drop of water.
  • Over 90% of Pakistan's freshwater is allocated to agriculture, making efficient water use crucial for the industry.
  • Solving the water crisis in Balochistan will require teamwork, strong data, and long-term planning.

Statistics:

  • More than 90% of Pakistan's freshwater is allocated to agriculture.
  • Balochistan's groundwater levels are declining, and aquifers are facing increasing stress.
  • The IWMI's digital tools aim to assist farmers and policymakers in making informed decisions about utilizing solar power for irrigation.
  • The two workshops were organized by IWMI with support from the European Union, the Government of Balochistan, and CGIAR's Climate Action and Policy Innovation programs.

Sources:

  • International Water Management Institute (IWMI)
  • European Union
  • Government of Balochistan
  • CGIAR's Climate Action and Policy Innovation programs
  • National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA)
  • Punjab government

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