Unpacking the Challenges of Solar Lift Irrigation in Nepal’s Mid-Hills: Toward a Sustainable Energy-Water Solution

Shrestha, Shisher; Karki, Darshan; Aryal, Mamata; Buchy, Marlene

Unpacking the Challenges of Solar Lift Irrigation in Nepal’s Mid-Hills: Toward a Sustainable Energy-Water Solution

Autores

Descripción

Solar Lift Irrigation (SLI) presents a promising water-energy-food nexus solution, especially in off-grid, low-income countries with mountainous terrain. Yet adoption and scaling remain limited. This study examines barriers to the clean energy adoption for irrigation and identifies Critical Success Factors (CSFs) influencing SLI sustainability. The study draws on qualitative evidence from thirteen SLI projects across eight districts in Nepal, based on primary data collected through nine group discussions and nineteen semi-structured interviews with multiple stakeholder groups. The analysis identifies seven interdependent CSFs: detailed feasibility study, cost of technology, farm income, transparency, synergies, ownership, and operation and management (O&M) plan. We find that the successful adoption of technological innovations like SLI depends on a host of interrelated factors that cannot be addressed in isolation. Yet our study reveals that SLI projects often prioritize techno-financial dimensions while governance and social dimensions are neglected. For long-term sustainability, it is imperative to understand and balance all dimensions of the project, fostering an enabling environment that supports technological adoption. Addressing the interlinkages among these CSFs can strengthen SLI sustainability through an integrated approach linking energy and water access with rural livelihood. The findings highlight three policy priorities: formalizing inter-governmental coordination, establishing dedicated post-installation maintenance funding, and integrating SLI projects with agricultural value chains. These insights are relevant for similar off-grid contexts across the Global South.