On 15 November 2021, the Global programme “Green Innovation Centres for the Agriculture and Food Sector – India” (GIC) officially launched two renewable energy solutions for the apple value chain in Himachal Pradesh – the solar power cold storage facility and a hydropower water pump. Following one day of the official inauguration, a field visit to the sites where technologies have been installed was organised.

The event was particularly important for private sector partners, the project is collaborating with aQysta, CoolCrop and Chuwara Valley Association, a Farmer organisation promoted by the GIC, public partners such as the Department of Horticulture of Himachal Pradesh, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, and Himurja. The Barsha pump, a waterwheel-based hydro-powered water pump uses the flow of a river to pump up water and thus does not need any other external sources of energy. It is extremely versatile and requires only minimal maintenance due to the lack of moving parts or electrical components. A floating version of this pump has been installed in the Pabbar river yet, other sites are in Gumma, Devi Dhar, and Seema. Also, the innovative solar powered cold storage technology by CoolCrop was a focus point during the event. This renewable energy solution is highly beneficial for storing produce. Therefore, it increases the longevity and shelf life of fruits. As such, it allows farmers to sustain their crops during the post-harvest period and obtain the best possible price. Generally, farmers as the main beneficiaries of GIC’s renewable energy solutions are expected to be able to further extend their services through the introduced technologies. Concluding the event, the importance of renewable energy solutions for a cleaner national footprint was acknowledged by all stakeholders.

The programme’s interventions in the apple value chain also include innovations such as solar power dryers, solar powered animal deterrents, solar sprayers and solar fermenters.

For more information please contact Mr. Sashi Kumar, sashi.kumar(at)giz.de.