Cagayan deploys solar-powered pumps to support drought-hit farms

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Cagayan solar pumps for farms

Highlights

The National Irrigation Administration Region II deployed five mobile solar-powered irrigation pumps in Cagayan province in August to aid drought-affected farms.
Each mobile solar pump, equipped with eight 580-watt panels totaling 4.64 kilowatts, can irrigate two to three hectares daily based on conditions.
NIA estimates each pump saves about P3,060 per day in fuel costs, enabling farmers to allocate more funds to seeds, fertilizers, and farm inputs.

Solar pump rollout for water-stressed farms

As reported by BusinessWorld Online, the National Irrigation Administration Region II has deployed five mobile solar-powered irrigation pumps in Cagayan province to help farms facing inadequate irrigation. The project, launched in August, focuses on agricultural areas with limited access to water from the Cagayan River, where declining water levels are threatening crops, especially during El Niño-related dry spells.

The effects of the shortage are already affecting the Muhara Irrigators’ Association. Its president, Samuel Agustin, said many seedlings dried up and died after farmers began planting on June 15, while only a few were able to continue planting and others faced rising debt and possible losses.

Each mobile unit operates with eight 580-watt solar panels for a total capacity of 4.64 kilowatts. The pumps are fitted with a 50-meter hose and a surge protection device, and each unit can irrigate an estimated two to three hectares a day depending on sunlight and operating conditions.

Cost savings and food security goals

Beyond supplying water, the solar-powered units are expected to lower operating costs for farmers by reducing fuel use. NIA estimates each pump can save about P3,060 a day in fuel expenses, allowing farmers to redirect money to seeds, fertilizers and other farm inputs.

NIA Region II Regional Manager Raymuno Apil said the agency is seeking to strengthen irrigation services, protect crops from drought and help stabilize farmers’ incomes. By using solar energy, the agency is aiming to improve water access for vulnerable farmlands and support food security across the Cagayan Valley.

The Philippines’ $57.4 million agrifood investment pipeline was previously highlighted in our coverage, presenting projects across coffee, seaweed, mango, jackfruit, and cocoa to attract private capital and strengthen the sector. The portfolio also pointed to processing and machinery upgrades with potential environmental benefits, underscoring the push to de-risk farming and improve resilience amid climate pressures.

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