SARPV started Solar Irrigation at the end of 2017 initially in Dinajpur District as an Implementing partner of IDCOL. Till now SARPV has already constructed 6 pumps in Dinajpur district and 27 pumps are under construction. These pumps are environment-friendly which reduce the consumption of fossil fuel and electricity. Using these pumps SARPV along with IDCOL is contributing to reduction of emission of Carbon dioxide, thus protecting the environment.
Goal
Ensure uninterrupted irrigation and Reduce consumption of fossil fuel.
Target Group
Agro-based population of rural off-grid areas.
Project Area
Bochagonj, Birganj, Kaharol and Birol Upazillas of Dinajpur district.
Achievements
So far, 240 acres of agricultural land have been covered (each pump covers 40 acres of land) with uninterrupted irrigation water. More than 880 acres of agricultural land will be covered in the upcoming Boro season with 22 new pumps
Challenges
• Lack of awareness about this new technology at the farmer’s level is one of the prime challenges.
• Excessive fog In January interrupts the solar panel to generate power from sunlight.
• Heavy rainfall reduces the demand for irrigation water, thus the revenue collection.
• Sometimes seasonal storm destroys solar panels. Replacing solar panel is very expensive.
• Price of irrigation water from solar pumps is higher than that from diesel driven shallow pump.
• Revenue collection from farmer level is the big challenge. Farmers become unwilling to pay the bill after harvesting.
Lesson Learned
• To avoid the impact of fog, irrigation water should be managed by alternative power.
• An increase of grant amount from IDCOL can reduce the water price.
• Raising awareness among and providing training to the farmers can ensure the revenue collection.
