PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has approved the installation of solar-powered tube wells across the province as part of efforts to promote low-cost and sustainable energy solutions in the agricultural sector.
According to the Agriculture Department, a total of 420 solar tube wells will be installed under two separate schemes, benefiting thousands of acres of farmland and helping farmers improve irrigation facilities.
Officials said that 320 agricultural solar tube wells will be installed in different districts of the province at an estimated cost of Rs2 billion. The project aims to reduce farmers’ operational expenses, increase agricultural productivity, and encourage the use of environmentally friendly energy sources.
Under a special package for Kohat, an additional 100 solar tube wells will be installed at a cost of Rs225 million to provide improved irrigation facilities to local farmers.
The provincial government has also decided to convert 100 existing agricultural tube wells to solar energy, which is expected to significantly reduce electricity and fuel expenses for farmers.
In another initiative, 450 recharge wells will be constructed in rain-fed areas of the province. Authorities said all recharge wells will be geo-tagged to improve monitoring of water resources and support better planning.
The Agriculture Department stated that more than 1,100 farmers are expected to benefit from free solar energy facilities of up to 3,540 kilowatt-hours. Special monitoring equipment will also be installed at solar tube wells to prevent water wastage and ensure efficient use of resources.
Officials said the initiatives are part of the provincial government’s broader strategy to modernize agriculture, reduce input costs, and improve water management practices.
