Incentives for energy-efficient irrigation: Empirical evidence of technology adoption in Andhra Pradesh, India

Kimmich, C. (2013) Incentives for energy-efficient irrigation: Empirical evidence of technology adoption in Andhra Pradesh, India. Energy for Sustainable Development, 17. pp. 261-269.

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Abstract

The Indian political economy has created a persistent subsidization regime for agricultural irrigation. Low flat-rate electricity supply for groundwater-based irrigation has led to the use of inefficient pumpset technology. There is currently no financial incentive for farmers to improve energy efficiency through demand side measures. However, both farmers and distribution utilities incur costs through the frequent burnout of pumpsets and distribution transformers. Thus, demand side measures that reduce equipment damage while simultaneously improving energy efficiency can be a viable option under the given subsidization regime. An econometric analysis indicates that energy-efficient pumpsets and the use of capacitors can reduce the frequency of equipment burnouts. However, standard-approved pumpsets can also create detrimental effects under low power quality conditions, counteracting efforts to improve energy efficiency. A crucial constraint for any further deployment of demand side measures is the improvement of power quality, which requires concerted action to overcome coordination failure.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Energy efficiency, Irrigation, Electricity, Statistical analysis, India
Author Affiliation:	Humboldt University Berlin, Division of Resource Economics, Philippstraße 13, D-10115 Berlin, Germany
Subjects:	Agricultural Engineering
Divisions:	General
Depositing User:	Mr B Krishnamurthy
Date Deposited:	02 Sep 2016 09:42
Last Modified:	02 Sep 2016 09:42
Official URL:	http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.esd.2013.02.004
URI:	http://eprints.icrisat.ac.in/id/eprint/14374

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