Photo courtesy of Connie Calipay/PNA
The National Irrigation Administration(NIA) in Bicol is converting seven fuel-powered irrigation systems into solar-powered facilities to modernize farming infrastructure.
Spokesperson Ma. Cleofe Baraero said the projects cover Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Sorsogon, and Camarines Norte.
Each system has a budget of Php 10 million, and the program of work is being finalized, with implementation expected within the year.
Baraero added that the initiative aims to reduce operational costs for farmers by lowering dependence on fuel and electricity.
NIA-Bicol manager Gaudencio John De Vera said the shift to renewable energy will boost productivity and sustainability for local farmers.
He noted that solar-powered systems can increase cropping cycles from two to three times a year, providing additional income for farmers.
The projects are designed to ensure a reliable and cost-efficient water supply, especially during dry periods when irrigation access is limited.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently inspected two solar-powered irrigation projects worth Php 322 million in Camarines Sur, while NIA-Bicol turned over a Php 16-million system to farmers in Barangay Itaran, Polangui.
