SoLAR Phase II Launched to Expand Climate-Resilient Solar Irrigation

SoLAR Phase II Launched to Scale Climate-Resilient Solar Irrigation

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), in collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), has launched SoLAR Phase II , an international programme aimed at accelerating climate-resilient and socially inclusive solar irrigation in agriculture. Extending the work of Phase I (2019–2024), the initiative now covers India, Bangladesh, Kenya and Ethiopia , focusing on promoting clean energy transitions among smallholder farmers.

Key Outcomes from SoLAR Phase I

Phase I generated strong scientific evidence supporting the performance and sustainability of both grid-connected and off-grid solar pumps. Research from Gujarat indicated that connecting solar pumps to the electricity grid did not lead to increased groundwater withdrawal, while significantly reducing carbon emissions. In Madhya Pradesh, women-led farming enterprises reported improved irrigation access, higher agricultural productivity and enhanced incomes through solar interventions.

Solarisation and National-Level Initiatives

Solar energy continues to transform rural irrigation by replacing diesel-dependent systems with reliable, low-cost alternatives. India’s PM-KUSUM scheme, which has benefitted more than 1.43 million farmers, remains a key driver of agricultural solarisation. Insights from SoLAR pilots are expected to shape the next phase of the scheme in 2027. Off-grid solar solutions have also strengthened climate resilience by reducing fuel expenses and ensuring more dependable water availability.

Scaling Through SoLAR Phase II

The new phase focuses on strengthening national policies, building institutional capacity and developing innovative financing pathways. A major feature is the introduction of living labs , enabling on-ground experimentation tailored to local needs. Another significant addition is SolaReady , a spatial tool designed to identify suitable areas for solar irrigation while aligning with climate adaptation and sustainable groundwater management.

Exam Oriented Facts

• SoLAR Phase II operates in India, Bangladesh, Kenya and Ethiopia .

• Phase I (2019–2024) showed strong climate benefits from grid-linked solar pumps.

• PM-KUSUM has reached 1.43 million farmers as of July 2025.

• SolaReady is the new decision-support platform for solar irrigation planning.