Solar-Powered Water Solutions for Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Lessons from SoLAR (Session Report)

At the World Water Week on 24 August 2025, the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) hosted an online session under the Solar Energy for Agricultural Resilience (SoLAR) initiative, supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The session examined how solar-powered irrigation can strengthen water resilience and support climate adaptation in agriculture across the Global South.

Participants highlighted how climate change is intensifying droughts, floods, and rainfall variability, placing pressure on water resources and the livelihoods of agriculture-dependent communities. Irrigation has long helped reduce vulnerability to climate variability in regions such as South Asia, yet access remains uneven—particularly for women and marginalized farmers. Emerging evidence shows that solar irrigation technologies can improve water access, boost crop productivity, extend growing seasons, and support diversified livelihoods.

The discussion also explored the rapid expansion of solar technologies in rural areas, including solar pumps, lighting, dryers, and cold chains. Experiences from South Asia and East Africa illustrated how government subsidies, donor investments, and private-sector models—such as pay-as-you-go services—are accelerating adoption. However, participants emphasized persistent challenges related to equitable access, financing, and the risk of groundwater over-extraction.

The session underscored the need for context-specific policies, inclusive financing models, and stronger partnerships to scale solar irrigation sustainably while safeguarding water resources and supporting resilient agri-food systems.