Scaling Inclusive Solar MUS in Nepal: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Pathways
No hay miniatura disponible
Fecha
Título de la revista
ISSN de la revista
Título del volumen
Editor
Farmer Managed Irrigation Systems Promotion Trust (FMIST)
Resumen
Descripción
Solar-powered multiple-use water services (solar-MUS) systems have become an effective solution in Nepal’s hilly regions, providing water for drinking, other domestic uses, irrigation, and small enterprises by lifting groundwater or river water to upland settlements. Their adaptability has encouraged adoption at both household and community levels. Beyond economic gains, solar-MUS reduces women’s workload and supports social empowerment. This study examines opportunities and challenges for scaling inclusive Solar-MUS using literature reviews, policy analysis, and qualitative case studies of two mid-hill projects. Key findings highlight policy fragmentation, governance gaps, high upfront costs, and social inequities as barriers, while strong local ownership, resilient system design, and integrated policy support emerge as enablers. Scaling solar-MUS requires coordinated institutional roles, capacity-building for user groups, and private sector-led innovation to ensure long-term sustainability and equitable benefits. The study provides actionable pathways for expanding inclusive, climate-resilient water services in Nepal’s mid-hills.
Palabras clave
multiple use water services, solar powered irrigation systems, inclusion, scaling up, policies