Nepal: Accelerating Commercialization of Photo-Voltaic (PV) Water Pumps
Zero Hunger
Affordable and Clean Energy
Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureClient
Winrock International
Location
Core: Kapilvastu, Dang, Surkhet, Banke, Kailali. Obs: Kathmandu, Dhading, Chitwan, Shyangja
Duration
June - October 2014
Project Description
Sponsored by Winrock International, this study examined the potential of photovoltaic water pumping (PVWP) technology for irrigation. The major objective was to prepare a baseline situation of PV technology in the Western and Mid-Western Development Regions. Core survey districts included Kapilvastu, Dang, Surkhet, Banke, and Kailali, with site observations in Kathmandu, Dhading, Chitwan, and Shyangja. The study established baselines for promotion including trends in irrigation and crop production, finding PVWP cost-effective for farms over 0.20 hectares.
Methodology
Baseline situation analysis, random selection of 156 locations, financial analysis, and farmer willingness surveys.
Services Provided
- Assessed potential of PVWP for irrigation.
- Conducted cost-benefit analysis of PVWP vs. diesel/electric pumps.
- Analyzed potential shift from cereal to High-Value Crops (HVC).
- Recommended policy support including subsidies and tax exemptions.
Focus Areas
Renewable Energy (Solar)IrrigationHigh-Value CropsAgricultural Commercialization
Key Deliverables
- Feasibility study report.
- Financial analysis of PVWP systems.
- Policy recommendations for commercialization.
Project Outcomes
- Established cost-effectiveness of PVWP for farms >0.20 hectares.
- Identified potential for threefold increase in HVC production.
