Modernisation of irrigation in A Limia: An investment of 29.7 million euros to improve water efficiency

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has launched an ambitious project to modernise irrigation in A Limia, Ourense, with an investment of 29.7 million euros . This project, financed with Next Generation funds from the European Union, seeks to optimise water use and reduce energy consumption in the area.

Modernization of infrastructure and saving resources in irrigation

The project focuses on replacing the current irrigation systems , which use diesel motor pumps and surface aluminum pipes, with pressurized irrigation networks with remote control systems. The new infrastructure will include buried pipes, pumping and filtration stations, hydrants, and storage and regulation systems. In addition, photovoltaic solar panels will be installed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Thanks to the installation of underground pipelines, savings of up to 20% in water use are expected, significantly improving the efficiency of water transport from underground intakes to crop plots.

Benefits for local farmers

This project will directly benefit 1,822 irrigators who cultivate 2,576 hectares in the municipalities of Xinzo de Limia, Trasmiras, Sarreaus and Porqueira. The new infrastructure will allow farmers to have pressurized water on their plots, integrating the irrigation system into a digital environment that will facilitate the management and optimization of water resources.

Sustainability and energy efficiency

The use of renewable energies, such as solar energy, will reduce energy costs and the emission of polluting gases, making agriculture in the region more sustainable and efficient . This project is part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR), under the program for improving the efficiency and sustainability of irrigation, with co-financing of up to 80% of the eligible cost from the EU's Next Generation funds. The irrigation communities of Lamas-Ganade, Alta Limia, Corno do Monte and San Salvador de Sabucedo will provide the rest.