Conceptual Evaluation of A Renewable Energy-Based Drip Irrigation System for Water use Efficiency in Drylands

Abstract

Water scarcity is a major challenge for the development of dryland agriculture in Indonesia, especially during increasingly prolonged dry seasons driven by climate change. A renewable energy-based drip irrigation system offers an innovative solution to improve water-use efficiency and reduce dependence on fossil energy sources. This study aims to conceptually evaluate the use of a drip irrigation system integrated with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power for dryland applications. The method employed is a systematic literature review of scientific literature on drip irrigation technology, renewable energy-based pump systems, agricultural water management, and the economic aspects of implementation. The evaluation results show that the drip irrigation system can save up to 60 percent of water usage compared to conventional irrigation and increase water application efficiency by up to 90 percent. Integration with photovoltaic solar panels as an energy source is technically and economically feasible, with a payback period of 5 to 8 years. This system can reduce operational costs by up to 70 percent in the long term and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel use. The conclusion of this conceptual evaluation is that the renewable energy-based drip irrigation system has great potential to sustainably improve dryland agricultural productivity, with significant economic, social, and environmental benefits.