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The model has potential well beyond Tapri. Project InnerSpace sees massive scalability across millions of hectares of global farmland.

Agriculture

Empowering farmers: the impact of geothermal technology

A new geothermal cold storage initiative in Himachal Pradesh is set to change the game for Indian farmers, slashing post-harvest losses and boosting rural incomes

Project InnerSpace has launched its GeoFund programme, with the first funded initiative breaking ground in Tapri, Kinnaur—an apple-growing region in northern India. The Tapri Geothermal Cold Storage Project, spearheaded by clean-tech company Geotropy, aims to provide farmers with reliable, low-cost cold storage and crop drying using geothermal energy.

GeoFund is designed to support pilot projects that showcase the power of geothermal energy to drive economic growth, particularly in underserved rural areas. By using philanthropic funding to de-risk early-stage ventures, the programme aims to unlock global models that are scalable and sustainable.

“A widely recognised barrier to the rapid expansion of geothermal energy is the lack of pilot projects to demonstrate impact across the various technologies, applications, geologies, and geographies globally where it could be most impactful in economic development, energy security, and prosperity,” said Jamie Beard, Executive Director of Project InnerSpace.

The Tapri facility will offer 500 tonnes of cold storage and fruit dehydration capacity, allowing apple growers and horticulture farmers to store and preserve their harvest, reduce waste, and sell at higher prices outside of the harvest glut. Currently, the absence of affordable, dependable cooling forces many smallholders to offload crops quickly, often at a loss.

“This project is about more than just building a cold storage unit—it's about making sure our community can create economic growth by tapping into its geothermal potential,” said Vijay Chauhan, CEO of Geotropy. “Our farmers already see the value of this work, and we now have a waiting list for people to use the facilities.”

The model has potential well beyond Tapri. Project InnerSpace sees massive scalability across millions of hectares of global farmland, particularly in regions where post-harvest losses hinder food security. GeoFund will open-source data and collaborate with partners to replicate the model in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

ProgressiveTraction features an innovative double-edge lug design. (Image credit: Trelleborg Tires)

Equipment

Trelleborg’s ProgressiveTraction: a decade of innovation

In the shifting soil of modern agriculture, where weather is unpredictable and margins are tight, it’s often the overlooked details like tyres that make all the difference

For over a decade, Trelleborg’s ProgressiveTraction technology has been doing just that: delivering practical, field-tested advantages to farmers navigating today’s demanding conditions.

Born from real-world farming needs, ProgressiveTraction features an innovative double-edge lug design, crafted to provide superior traction, reduce soil compaction, and improve stability—even in the most unforgiving field conditions. Combined with self-cleaning tread patterns and wider lugs to reduce vibration, this tyre offers smoother, smarter performance where it matters most.

Alessio Bucci, Marketing Training & Development Director said, “Each feature of ProgressiveTraction has been carefully developed by our tyre experts to give farmers real advantages in the field, every day.” He added, “Whether the goal is to maximise performance or increase efficiency, this technology delivers a field-tested response to the performance expectations of modern agriculture.”

The technology even proved itself at the bottom of the world. In 2014, ProgressiveTraction was fitted to a Massey Ferguson 5610 that completed a 5,000-km journey to the South Pole and back during the Antarctica2 Expedition.

“Taking part in such a complex expedition allowed us to put our expertise into practice in the most challenging conditions,” Bucci explains.

Today, ProgressiveTraction powers a full range of Trelleborg’s agricultural tyres, from the TM1000 for high-horsepower tractors, to the TM3000 for harvesters and TM600 for row crops. The newer TM900 offers up to 17% more grip and 20% longer tyre life than competitors.

With the Premium Care Portal, Trelleborg now backs select models with up to 5,000 certified hours of tread wear, offering even more peace of mind to working farmers.

Bucci added, “As agriculture continues to move forward, this technology stands ready to leave its mark on an ever-wider range of tyres and applications.”

Accelerating Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific’s Agri-Food System. (Image credit: SIAW)

Event News

Singapore International Agri-Food Week 2025

The Singapore International Agri-Food Week (SIAW) 2025 returns from 3-6 November 2025 at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre, bringing together global leaders to explore the theme ‘Accelerating Climate Resilience in Asia-Pacific’s Agri-Food System’

Organised by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Temasek, with support from Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), SIAW is set to build on the success of the 2024 event, which attracted over 8,200 attendees, 270 exhibitors, and 380 speakers from across the globe.

The Asia-Pacific region, home to 60% of the world’s population, faces growing food security challenges due to climate-related events like droughts and floods. These disruptions can severely impact agricultural productivity, making it essential to accelerate investment and innovation. Global agri-tech funding surged to USD 16 billion in 2024, highlighting the urgency of creating climate-resilient food systems.

At SIAW 2025, the spotlight will be on innovations in alternative proteins, with significant investments in fermentation technologies and cultivated meat, including a record USD 203 million in global public investment. These advances are shaping the future of food, driving a shift towards sustainable production and healthier consumption.

SIAW 2025 will feature five major events that address key dimensions of food security and sustainability. A highlight will be the 4th edition of the ‘Asia Food Challenge Report 2025’, unveiling strategies to build resilience in Asia’s food systems.

The Asia-Pacific Agri-Food Innovation Summit, a flagship event, will focus on building agility and resilience in the region’s food systems. The summit will feature over 200 speakers and 60 exhibitors, providing a platform for policymakers, businesses, and investors to discuss sustainable nutrition, trade security, and decarbonisation.

Agri-Food Tech Expo Asia, showcasing cutting-edge technologies in farming and food processing, and the Global Agri-Food Scientific Symposium, focusing on the latest in agri-food research, will highlight advancements that are crucial for ensuring food security and sustainability in a changing climate.

As SIAW 2025 unfolds, it will not only address urgent food security issues but also accelerate the adoption of sustainable, climate-resilient technologies that will shape the future of the agri-food industry in the Asia-Pacific region.

HSW ECO MATIC® 6ml _ 10ml (for injection, oral and pour-on application)

HSW ECO MATIC

ALMACO Telematics boosts seed research efficiency

Telematics enhances efficiency and uptime for seed research. (Image source: ALMACO)

ALMACO Telematics is a next-generation system delivering remote access to real-time machine data—boosting efficiency, performance, and uptime for seed research professionals

Available on both the R1 Single-Plot and R2 Twin-Plot Research Combines, it’s the only telematics offering integrated specifically for seed research, reinforcing ALMACO’s leadership in precision agtech.

With insights into numerous machine parameters, the platform provides deep visibility into settings, location, diagnostics, software, and performance. This empowers fleet managers and researchers to easily monitor and optimise machine use for peak operational output.

Maximising uptime through smart diagnostics

A key feature of ALMACO Telematics is its remote diagnostics and repair capability, protecting uptime and reducing disruptions. Over 30% of service issues can be resolved remotely, removing the need for a field technician and delivering cost-effective value.

Simplified software upgrades

The system enables remote software updates, ensuring machines stay up to date without site visits. This reduces downtime and maintenance costs while supporting continuous tech improvement.

Enhanced fleet oversight

From their desks, managers can track machine performance and advise operators to refine seed trial accuracy. Telematics interfaces can also be remotely customised to support the specific goals of different research operations, improving data precision and machine functionality.

A smart investment for research operations

By reducing field calls, improving uptime, and enhancing resale value, ALMACO Telematics offers a strong return on investment. With its real-time oversight and proactive maintenance tools, seed research professionals can operate with confidence and lower costs.

“The integration of ALMACO Telematics marks a significant step forward in precision seed research,” said Mat Titus, service director at ALMACO. “By offering real-time data access and remote diagnostics, we are enabling researchers to focus on what matters most—developing the next generation of seed innovations.”

Crops

Argos brings global expertise to local fields, using advanced technology to tackle extreme conditions and food security challenges head-on.

Agriculture

Transforming agriculture with high-tech, sustainable growing solutions

Argos Greenhouse Solutions, an Israeli pioneer in agritech, has been redefining modern farming since 2005

Designing and delivering turnkey greenhouse systems for regions as diverse as Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, Argos brings global expertise to local fields, using advanced technology to tackle extreme conditions and food security challenges head-on.

“High-quality produce, grown locally, using world-class technology” is more than just a slogan — it’s the foundation of their work. At the Israel–South Africa Agritech event, business development manager Bar Sharon shared how controlled-environment agriculture is not just a luxury but a necessity in regions where traditional farming simply cannot survive.

“We’ve had to design greenhouses that can withstand everything from -10°C snowy winters to 50°C scorching summers. These are greenhouses, highly engineered environments capable of year-round production in climates where conventional farming fails,” Sharon noted.

One such success unfolded in Central Asia, where Argos’ climate-controlled greenhouses delivered lush vegetables in the depths of winter. These projects were made possible through precise design, customised structures, and advanced environmental control systems tailored to local extremes. Argos never applies a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, every project begins with market demand, followed by crop selection, greenhouse design, and a viable business model. According to Sharon, this strategy ensures that their solutions are grounded in real-world economics.

But the company's scope goes well beyond greenhouse construction. From initial design to post-harvest infrastructure and even training, Argos helps clients build entire agricultural ecosystems. In Indonesia, Argos partnered with local authorities to equip rural farmers with solar-powered greenhouse kits to grow habanero chillies. These compact, off-grid systems use gravity-fed irrigation and solar panels, allowing communities with limited infrastructure to run self-sustaining, profitable farming operations.

“We can supply post-harvest packing houses, sorting machinery, cold storage, and even training programs. This is about building sustainable agricultural ecosystems for the client,” Sharon explained.

Affordability is also key. Argos strives to make high-end technologies cost-effective for both commercial and smallholder growers. “Innovation doesn’t help if it’s not profitable,” Sharon said. “These aren’t charity projects. They’re sustainable, revenue-generating ecosystems that create jobs, strengthen food security, and support local economies.”

Sharon’s relocation to South Africa marks a bold step in Argos’ commitment to expanding across Africa. With its vast range of climates and a growing need for reliable food systems, the continent presents immense potential for controlled-environment agriculture. The company is actively seeking local partners to launch pilot projects and showcase what their solutions can achieve.

Though greenhouses remain Argos’ core strength, their expertise now includes open-field irrigation systems, including their own line of sprinklers currently being distributed in India — with plans to expand further.

Argos Greenhouse Solutions is helping redefine what’s possible in agriculture. By merging local production with global standards, they are proving that with the right technology, top-quality produce can be grown just around the corner no matter the climate. As Sharon put it, “When you walk down the supermarket aisle, we want you to pick up something new: something that looks like it was imported from Europe, but was actually grown just down the road.”

Its designed to transform the food supply chain with cutting-edge milling technology.

Norroa effectively controls varroa mites for up to 18 weeks, improving overall colony health.

Livestock

The event brought together over 300 industry experts. (Image credit: Sigenergy)

Aquaculture

Modular solar-storage innovation powers sustainable aquaculture

Sigenergy, a key player in renewable energy innovation, recently showcased its modular commercial and industrial (C&I) solar-storage system at Sigenergy Day APAC in Hainan

The event brought together over 300 industry experts, partners, clients, and media professionals to explore the evolving landscape of solar-storage technology. A particular highlight of the event was a tour of a new aquaculture project powered entirely by solar and storage technology—demonstrating a bold step forward in sustainable energy applications beyond traditional sectors.

The seawater fish farming project, located in Hainan, uses Sigenergy’s advanced C&I inverters and the SigenStack energy storage system to power its operations. With a setup integrating 6 MW of solar power and 5 MWh of storage capacity, the project shows how clean energy can be effectively used in the demanding environment of aquaculture. It is a significant case study for how renewable energy can reduce operational costs and support environmental goals in industries that depend on consistent and intensive energy use.

This fish farm, focused on cultivating the high-value Leopard Coral Grouper, requires stringent control over its operating environment. Maintaining stable water temperature, constant oxygen supply, and controlled lighting is essential to the survival of the fish. These needs drive high energy consumption, with the farm using around 43,200 kWh daily and more than 15 million kWh annually. Sigenergy’s system drastically cuts the farm’s reliance on the grid and offers a cost-effective, environmentally conscious energy solution.

The site posed several logistical and environmental challenges that traditional energy systems could not solve. However, Sigenergy’s modular design provided key advantages. Space was a major limitation, with narrow corridors between ponds making bulky container systems impractical. The compact, plug-and-play nature of Sigenergy’s solution allowed it to be easily installed without wasting valuable space.

Transport and installation were also simplified. As the site is located near water networks, heavy machinery access was impossible. Sigenergy’s lightweight units, which don’t require cranes, enabled the system to be fully set up in just four days. The sandy soil also posed structural concerns, but the modular design allowed even weight distribution, reducing foundation stress and ensuring safety.

Being just 300 metres from the sea, the site is exposed to salt-heavy air and humidity. Sigenergy’s equipment is built to last under such harsh conditions, with IP66 and C5-M protection ratings that provide high-level resistance to corrosion and ensure long-term performance.

This deployment not only delivers reliable and clean energy for the aquaculture industry but also stands as a scalable model for energy transformation in other complex, high-demand environments.

The future of marine resources.

Automation is increasingly essential to manage labour shortages, enhance precision, and meet hygiene and welfare standards.

Equipment

The system is capable of cleaning up to six tiers of cages. (Image credit: Kohshin Engineering Co.)

Equipment

Smart cleaning automation for poultry house hygiene

The Venus 2.0 is an advanced cleaning robot built to improve hygiene in poultry houses by significantly reducing the need for manual labour

Designed with ease of use and durability in mind, it delivers reliable cleaning performance with minimal human intervention.

The system is capable of cleaning up to six tiers of cages, handling heights of up to four metres. It operates smoothly in aisles ranging from 0.6 to 1.4 metres wide, making it suitable for various poultry house layouts. The robot is operated through a tablet interface, which allows users to set, repeat, and monitor cleaning routines in real time with ease.

A key feature of the Venus 2.0 is its specially designed rotating nozzle system. As it moves vertically, it targets hard-to-reach spots that are often missed with manual cleaning. Lab tests have confirmed its superior cleaning results compared to traditional methods.

Thanks to its large-diameter wheels, the robot can clean long aisles—up to 100 metres—without manual repositioning. It’s equipped with a hose reel that works in sync with the robot, automatically adjusting as it moves to keep operations seamless and hands-free.

Powering the system is a high-pressure pump developed by Kohshin, operating at up to 25 MPa. The pump uses a crank mechanism for stable performance and minimal maintenance and can also be used manually if needed.

Venus 2.0 is engineered to handle both single- and double-sided cleaning, depending on the aisle setup. It uses 15 to 30 litres of water per minute, weighs around 220 kg for the main unit and 190 kg for the hose reel, and runs on single-phase power.

The DX7004 is powered by a dual-motor hybrid powertrain. (Image credit: Zoomlion)

ProgressiveTraction features an innovative double-edge lug design. (Image credit: Trelleborg Tires)

Technology

Technologies can improve farming efficiency and strengthen the supply chain.

Infrastructure

AI and data is key to transforming Indonesia’s agriculture

Nezar Patria, Deputy Minister of communication and digital affairs, has stressed the vital role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data in transforming Indonesia’s agricultural sector.

He highlighted that strong digital infrastructure is the foundation for achieving sustainable agriculture across the country.

“To really take advantage of AI power and data, a strong digital infrastructure is very important. This includes evenly distributed broadband access and an inclusive digital platform for farmers and agri-food business actors,” Nezar said during an official broadcast.

He emphasised that digital transformation in agriculture is not about following global trends, but a strategic move to address national food security challenges. Technologies such as smart sensors, drones, automation, and predictive analytics can significantly improve farming efficiency, reduce waste, and strengthen the supply chain from production to distribution.

“AI and data can revolutionize our entire agri-food ecosystem,” he added.

To support this transformation, the ministry of communication and digital affairs (Komdigi) is speeding up the expansion of digital infrastructure in rural areas. The ministry is also promoting digital literacy and working closely with universities like Gadjah Mada University (UGM) to advance research, training, and the development of technology-based solutions for agriculture.

Nezar called on academics, farmers, and all stakeholders to join forces in strengthening national food sovereignty. “AI and data are bridges to Indonesia’s more productive, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural future,” he concluded.

Enhance Agricultural Resilience with Solar Energy.

These technologies also make farming more accessible for younger generations.

Crops

Its designed to transform the food supply chain with cutting-edge milling technology.

Agriculture

Leverage advanced milling techniques for quality flour

In a major step towards food innovation and sustainability, Japan’s Nippn Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with Greenfield Milling to redefine the future of flour production

This alliance marks a significant milestone as Greenfield Milling unveils its flagship milling facility in Richmond, Utah, designed to transform the food supply chain with cutting-edge milling technology and an expanded nationwide distribution network.

This partnership underscores Nippn’s global commitment to fostering international alliances and expanding its U.S. footprint, especially within the milling industry. Greenfield Milling, under this collaboration, aims to enhance flour production with a focus on quality, technology, and sustainability. The Richmond facility, now operational, can produce a diverse range of hard wheat, soft wheat, whole wheat, and organic flours, marking a new era for the U.S. flour industry.

One of the standout features of the new facility is its pneumatic flour supply system, which plays a crucial role in supplying flour for Campbell’s Pepperidge Farm plants under a 20-year supply agreement. This long-term commitment reflects Greenfield Milling’s focus on sustainability and efficiency, aligning seamlessly with Nippn’s principles of quality and innovation.

Looking to the future, Greenfield Milling plans to further expand its operations by leasing additional assets from Panhandle Milling in Hereford, Texas. This strategic move will bolster its offerings to the bakery industry, providing a range of high-quality ingredients such as tortillas, pizza dough, and gluten-free dry bake mixes.

By 2026, the Utah facility will undergo further upgrades to introduce advanced blending and warehousing automation, increasing capacity to meet rising consumer demand for superior bakery products. This expansion is directly influenced by Nippn’s role in driving growth and innovation in the partnership.

Genichi Murakami, Vice President of Medicaroid Corporation, a joint venture between Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Sysmex Corporation, stated, “Nippn’s partnership with Greenfield Milling showcases Japan’s expertise in creating sustainable and innovative food solutions. We are proud to support initiatives that elevate industry standards and drive global growth.”

This partnership brings together Japanese innovation and American operational excellence to shape the future of food ingredients, creating a sustainable food supply chain while meeting the growing demands of the bakery and retail markets.

Its designed to transform the food supply chain with cutting-edge milling technology.

Norroa effectively controls varroa mites for up to 18 weeks, improving overall colony health.

Livestock

The future of marine resources.

Aquaculture

The future of marine resources: Philippines and BBNJ

The Philippines is intensifying its efforts to ratify a landmark international treaty aimed at protecting marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ), reinforcing its commitment to ocean conservation and sustainable marine resource management

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has pledged full support to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in promoting the Senate’s concurrence to the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). Signed under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the BBNJ treaty addresses the conservation and equitable use of marine resources in high seas and other regions beyond exclusive national control.

Although Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President ratified the agreement in 2024-a year after its global adoption - the treaty still requires Senate concurrence before the Philippines can officially participate.

Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., Agriculture Secretary emphasised the agreement's relevance for the Philippines, said, “The BBNJ Agreement is crucial for conserving and sustainably managing marine biodiversity in areas beyond the Philippines’ jurisdiction, allowing the country to safeguard its rich marine ecosystems while ensuring fair access to and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.”

As a nation composed of over 7,000 islands and located near areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ), the Philippines has a strong stake in the treaty’s success. It was an early signatory and active participant in the negotiation process, aligning with global conservation goals and the principles of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award.

Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate stressed the strategic timing of the ratification: once approved by the Senate, the Philippines will be eligible to participate in the first Conference of Parties (COP1). This milestone event is expected to take place shortly after 60 countries submit their ratification instruments to the United Nations. As of late August, 55 nations have completed the process, with momentum building towards reaching the required threshold during the UN General Assembly from September 23–26.

The BBNJ treaty represents a critical tool for archipelagic nations like the Philippines—not only to influence global marine governance but also to safeguard marine ecosystems, promote fair benefit-sharing, and support the livelihoods of coastal communities reliant on ocean resources.

The future of marine resources.

Automation is increasingly essential to manage labour shortages, enhance precision, and meet hygiene and welfare standards.

Equipment

The DX7004 is powered by a dual-motor hybrid powertrain. (Image credit: Zoomlion)

Equipment

Revolutionising Zoomlion launched DX7004 hybrid tractor

In a significant leap for agricultural technology, China’s Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co., Ltd. has unveiled its most powerful hybrid wheeled tractor to date — the DX7004

Launched at the company’s Smart Industry City in Changsha, this nearly 4-metre-high machine represents a new era of high-performance, hybrid-powered farming equipment.

At the heart of this groundbreaking tractor lies cutting-edge hybrid drive technology, setting a global benchmark for high-horsepower agricultural machinery. With a peak output of 1,200 horsepower, the DX7004 is tailored for large-scale, high-intensity farming, making it an ideal solution for modern agricultural operations. The tractor integrates Zoomlion’s proprietary innovations, including a digital chassis and smart control systems, which enhance both efficiency and usability on the field.

Fu Ling, vice-president and chief engineer at Zoomlion said, “Zoomlion has successfully leveraged its strength in construction equipment to accelerate the transformation of the agricultural sector. We are committed to driving the modernization of agricultural machinery by setting new standards in performance, powertrain efficiency, and intelligence."

The DX7004 is powered by a dual-motor hybrid powertrain, offering 700 horsepower and a peak torque of 4,500 Nm, enabling the machine to cover up to 480 hectares (7,200 mu) in just 12 hours. The electric drive system allows for stepless speed control, ensuring optimal performance for various farming tasks. The tractor also features Zoomlion’s self-developed EPiot smart driving system and the AOS intelligent operations platform, enabling autonomous driving and centimetre-level precision for enhanced accuracy and productivity.

Liu Yuxin, General Manager of Zoomlion’s Agricultural Machinery Division said, “The DX7004 sets new standards in power, efficiency, and intelligent control. With innovations like electric continuously variable transmission and full-speed autonomous driving, we are driving the evolution of agricultural machinery toward greater intelligence and sustainability.”

Since its entry into the agricultural equipment sector in 2014, Zoomlion has swiftly positioned itself as a key player in global farming solutions. The company now offers a complete range of products for plowing, planting, crop management, and harvesting, spanning both paddy and dryland farming.

With the DX7004, Zoomlion is taking agriculture to the next level combining intelligence, efficiency, and sustainability in one powerful, state-of-the-art package.

The DX7004 is powered by a dual-motor hybrid powertrain. (Image credit: Zoomlion)

ProgressiveTraction features an innovative double-edge lug design. (Image credit: Trelleborg Tires)

Technology

Enhance Agricultural Resilience with Solar Energy.

Infrastructure

SoLAR project: revolutionizing agriculture with solar power

The SoLAR project, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), is entering its second phase, aiming to deepen agricultural resilience and climate transformation in smallholder farming

Launched by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the initiative runs from July 2025 to December 2029 and expands its geographical and thematic focus, now incorporating Ethiopia and Kenya, while continuing its work in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. Building on the success of its first phase (2019–2024), SoLAR looks to scale solar energy solutions for agriculture and position them as a replicable and scalable model for climate-resilient agriculture across the Global South.

In its first phase, SoLAR focused on generating evidence, piloting innovative financing models, and influencing policy to integrate solar-powered irrigation systems (SIPs). These solar pumps have proven effective in mitigating climate impacts by replacing diesel pumps and promoting sustainable groundwater usage. “Across the four South Asian countries, we have seen promising steps toward scaling solar irrigation sustainably and inclusively,” said Darshini Ravindranath, Project Lead and Research Group Leader at IWMI. The project has helped governments in Bangladesh and India integrate solar irrigation into national strategies, while in Nepal, it led to a significant policy shift, including revised subsidy criteria supporting women farmers and smallholders.

Key outcomes include the promotion of gender-sensitive policies, innovative financing such as micro-financing and grants, and the adoption of solar irrigation systems that reduce carbon emissions, conserve groundwater, and support high-value crops. IWMI’s work also extended to grid-connected solar irrigation in Nepal, enabling farmers to sell surplus energy, providing them with additional income streams while promoting responsible groundwater use.

In phase two, SoLAR will expand its reach to East Africa, focusing on scaling solar-powered solutions for irrigation, cooling, and processing. With Kenya and Ethiopia facing climate and energy challenges, the project sees solar technology as a transformative tool for boosting year-round agricultural production and enhancing food security. Muluken Elias Adamseged, Deputy Country Representative at IWMI in Ethiopia, remarked, “Scaling solar-powered irrigation, cooling, and processing can boost year-round production, cut losses and costs, and enhance food security.”

The second phase aims to drive an integrated approach with evidence-based policy design, accelerated funding for solar adoption, enhanced capacity building, and the establishment of Living Labs to test solar solutions in diverse settings. The program will directly benefit smallholder farmers in India, Bangladesh, Kenya, and Ethiopia by improving water and energy security, reducing emissions, and enhancing resilience to climate risks, according to Philippe Sas, Head of Cooperation for SDC in India.

Enhance Agricultural Resilience with Solar Energy.

These technologies also make farming more accessible for younger generations.

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