Farmer in Ethiopia with the solar pump he received from IWMI. Photo: Maheder Haileselassie / IWMI
Ethiopia has joined SoLAR Phase 2 at a time when the country is expanding its focus on clean irrigation solutions. Agriculture remains a major part of Ethiopia’s economy, and solar irrigation is increasingly seen as a viable option to support rural livelihoods. The project works with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), the Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), and local enterprises such as Green Scene Energy (GSE) to strengthen on-ground implementation and the overall enabling environment.
Under Phase 2, activities include supporting the integration of solar irrigation into national programmes and testing gender inclusive financing and business models. The project is also generating on-field evidence through pilot demonstrations. Capacity building for regional officers and work on sustainable groundwater use form another important part of the programme, as these are essential for long-term solar irrigation expansion.
Through innovation and knowledge sharing platforms, SoLAR Phase 2 aims to support Ethiopia in improving food security, advancing climate adaptation, and promoting sustainable electrification of irrigated agriculture.
Partners :
Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), Ethiopia
MoA is Ethiopia’s central government agency for agricultural development. MoA leads projects like PACT and FSRP, leveraging SoLAR to expand access to efficient irrigation and solar innovation.
Agricultural Transformation Institute (ATI), Ethiopia
ATI partners with SoLAR to develop and mainstream science-based solar irrigation and water management solutions for smallholders.
Green Scene Energy (GSE), Ethiopia–
Green Scene Energy is a women-led leader in solar distribution, providing PAY-Go and mini-grid solutions and supporting large-scale pilots for productive use in Phase 2.
Ethiopian Solar Energy Development Association (ESEDA), Ethiopia–
ESEDA fosters a vibrant solar industry through networking, policy engagement, and training, empowering local solar businesses.
GOGLA – GOGLA is working in Ethiopia to accelerate Productive Use of Renewable Energy (PURE) by supporting a sustainable industry ecosystem through three strategic pillars: convening stakeholders, influencing policy & finance, and informing members with data/standards
Agri-Energy Coalition – The Agri-Energy- Coalition is a global alliance of partners working on energy, water, agriculture, nutrition, climate and finance; created to unlock the potential of agri-food systems with clean energy.
