Solar power is revolutionizing agriculture in Bukidnon.
A new solar-powered irrigation system (SPIS) has been installed in the 50-hectare rainfed production area for high-value crops in Sitio Danao.
The SPIS was handed over to the Sitio Danao High-Value Crops Farmers Association (HVFAI) by the Department of Agriculture Region 10 (DA-10).
Using clean technology, the system is intended to help farmers mitigate the effects of El Nino.
The SPIS consists of 12 solar panels with an output of 5 horsepower. This is enough to irrigate at least 10 hectares of the farm.
DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Operations Carlota Madriaga is optimistic that the irrigation system will boost agriculture production. “So much potential lies for a bigger production of high-value crops,” Madriaga said during the turnover.
SPIS is especially valuable during the dry season when crops need more watering. During hot days, solar energy is easily harvested because the sun’s rays are abundant. Using solar energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and the use of expensive fossil fuels.
HVFAI is composed of 182 farmers growing high-value crops such as sweet potato, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and white potato.
According to the Department of Agriculture, the SPIS is worth over 1 million pesos.
For future projects, the Department of Agriculture encourages close communication with local government units (LGUs) and farmers’ associations.
Reference:
DA ramps up Bukidnon’s high-value crop production via solar-powered irrigation – Mindanao Daily News
Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems: An Asset For The Future – The Agrotech Daily
