Gelan Arabssa, Koye Feche Subcity, Shaggar City – Solar Village Ethiopia, a clean energy enterprise incubated under the EDEL Program, is currently implementing a solar water pumping system integrated with drip irrigation, marking a significant step toward sustainable and cost-effective agriculture in Ethiopia.

The project is being carried out in partnership with Alemi, Gulemi, and Friends Irrigation and Vegetable Association, a local farming group that has been actively engaged in horticulture since 2021 GC. The association manages a 2-hectare plot of land, operating through a family-based farming model focused on vegetable production.

Transition from Costly Diesel to Sustainable Solar

Prior to this intervention, the association relied heavily on a 4 kW diesel-powered water pump for irrigation. This method posed serious financial and operational challenges. According to Mr. Debebe, the association’s representative, irrigation costs reached approximately 9,000 ETB per day, required every 3–4 days—placing a heavy burden on the farmers, especially amid ongoing diesel supply constraints.

In addition to high recurring fuel costs, the association has purchased five diesel pumps over the years, all of which are now non-functional due to wear, maintenance issues, and operational inefficiencies.

Introducing a Reliable and Efficient Solar Solution

With the support of Solar Village Ethiopia, the association has now transitioned to a solar-powered irrigation system. The installed solution includes:

• A 2.2 kW solar water pump supporting flood irrigation
• A 1,000-liter water storage tank
• A drip irrigation system covering 500 m² (currently in demonstration phase)

This transition eliminates dependence on fuel, significantly reduces operational costs, and minimizes maintenance requirements—creating a more reliable and sustainable irrigation system.

Collaborative Support for Impact

The successful implementation of this project is made possible through strong collaboration:

• Sinqee Bank – Providing financial support
• One Million Birtu (አንድ ሚሊዮን ብርቱ) – Supporting part of the operational expenditure
• Solar Village Ethiopia – Leading system design, installation, and project delivery

A Demonstration with National Potential

The drip irrigation component is currently being implemented as a pilot demonstration, allowing the association to evaluate its effectiveness in improving water efficiency and crop productivity. Based on the results, there are plans to gradually scale the system across the full farmland.

Beyond its immediate benefits, the project is expected to serve as a learning model for nearby farmers, encouraging wider adoption of modern, efficient irrigation practices.

Driving the Future of Sustainable Agriculture

By replacing diesel-based irrigation with clean solar technology, this initiative not only reduces costs but also contributes to climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and improved farmer livelihoods.

What begins as a demonstration in Gelan Arabssa has the potential to transform irrigation practices across Ethiopia, paving the way for a more sustainable agricultural future.