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In 2023, LONGi achieved significant milestones across various domains. In Egypt, LONGi focused extensively on agriculture, a key component of the country’s economy. In collaboration with Maryzad, its partner in the region, LONGi successfully implemented numerous solar irrigation systems. The utilization of renewable energy as a clean electricity source aligns with Egypt’s goal to attain a 42% share of renewable electricity supply by 2035.
This article highlights two solar pump projects in Egypt designed to irrigate large farms. Commencing with the Malawi station in the Minya Governorate of Upper Egypt, Maryzad installed a 130kW solar system to irrigate a 75-acre farm cultivating diverse crops such as Thompsons seedless grapes, lemons, clover, onions, and garlic.
The farm owner’s motivation to avoid diesel usage stems from the associated costs, encompassing diesel and generator expenses, as well as additional outlays for oil, diesel transportation, mechanical maintenance, and related expenditures. These cumulative costs approximate the investment required for a solar system. Moreover, electricity prices for large farms exceed 120 Egyptian Pounds per hour for a pump. The financial benefits of solar installations, in addition to their environmental advantages, make them a worthwhile long-term investment, with a projected return on investment (ROI) within 18 to 24 months.
Moving to Northern Egypt, specifically in Wadi al-Natrun, another solar irrigation installation featuring LONGi modules has been established. Consisting of 112 panels with a capacity of 535W each, this 60kW solar pump project aims to irrigate a 40-acre farm cultivating aromatic and medicinal plants, including palm trees, olives, and jojoba plants.
Given Egypt’s status as a major producer of Jojoba oil, and with its demand on the rise, the project in Wadi al-Natrun becomes particularly significant. Jojoba oil, with a tree lifespan exceeding 100 years, can also be utilized in the production of environmentally friendly fuel. By integrating this with the green economy represented by solar energy, the project has the potential to reduce annual carbon emissions by 270 tons.
In addition to the environmental benefits of a solar solution, such as a clean and oil-free environment for the user and the farm, there are considerable financial advantages. The capital readiness period for solar energy in this context does not exceed a maximum of 5 years. |
