Economic feasibility and farmers’ willingness to adopt solar-powered irrigation pumps (SPIPs) for self-reliance

The study explores the viability of Solar-Powered Irrigation Pumps (SPIPs) as a sustainable solution to water scarcity and unreliable energy in the agricultural sector. Given the challenges posed by climate change and the inefficiencies of traditional energy sources, the research aims to evaluate the potential benefits and barriers of SPIPs in agriculture. Despite the promising prospects of SPIPs, there is a considerable research gap concerning their practical adoption constraints and economic feasibility. Employing an ex-post-facto research design, the study utilized a multi-stage random sampling technique to select 300 farmers for data collection through a pre-tested interview schedule. The analysis encompassed economic feasibility metrics such as payback period, net present worth, and benefit-cost ratio, while also evaluating farmers' willingness based on their perceptions and awareness. Results reveal that while 86.67 % of farmers have heard of SPIPs, only 59.65 % are willing to adopt. The disparity between awareness and practical experience, coupled with limited technical knowledge, contributes to uncertainty in adoption. Economic feasibility analyses indicate that SPIPs offer significant long-term cost savings, improved energy efficiency, and environmental benefits. However, barriers such as high initial costs and limited technical know-how hinder widespread adoption. A notable 42.33 % of farmers view SPIPs favorably, yet financial constraints and technical challenges persist. Policy implications include enhancing financial support mechanisms and technical assistance to facilitate broader adoption. Overall, addressing these barriers is crucial for advancing sustainable agricultural practices and achieving energy self-reliance in India and other developing countries. • SPIPs offer long-term cost savings, improved energy efficiency and environmental benefits, making them ideal for sustainable agriculture. • High initial costs, limited technical knowledge and financial constraints hinder farmers from adopting SPIPs. • Educational programs, demonstrations and promoting government schemes like PM KUSUM and SKY can bridge the gap between awareness and adoption. • Enhanced financial support and technical assistance are essential to overcome adoption barriers and promote sustainable agriculture and energy self-reliance.