Solar Power Generation and Usage in Irrigation: Lessons from a Novel Cooperative Initiative in India

A novel solar irrigation cooperative was started in Gujarat state in India; where solar power is generated and used at the farm level for irrigation. The surplus power is sold to the state electricity enterprise under a guaranteed power buyback arrangement. This study found that solar-powered irrigation is an economically viable solution for energy needs of irrigated agriculture; but the extraction of ground water had increased manifold. However, its impact on ground water markets and potential long term damage to ground water tables raises questions about its sustainability as an energy solution for irrigation. Strong policy intervention to regulate ground water extraction through solar pumps is required for them to become a sustainable solution for energy needs in irrigated agriculture.