Solar power brings Lake Toba water to Samosir’s rice fields

A new solar-powered pumping system in Samosir, Indonesia, has opened to supply Lake Toba water to 82 hectares of rice fields. Inaugurated on 3 October in the village of Sibonor Ompu Ratus, it is designed to serve 749 farmers while reducing reliance on fuel-powered pumps.

Limited irrigation has left these farmers largely dependent on rain and able to plant only once a year. A prolonged dry spell caused crop failures in Samosir in 2024.

The project, backed by Indonesia and the UK, uses sunshine to power irrigation rather than purchased fuel. Under optimal sunlight, the system can supply 1,700 to 1,900 cubic metres of water a day. Indonesia’s national development planning ministry hopes more reliable water will allow additional planting seasons and raise annual rice production from about 50 tonnes to 150 tonnes.

Keeping the equipment working is part of the plan. A local water users’ group has received training in maintenance, bookkeeping and water allocation, and the district government has committed to funding operators. Farmers will also contribute maintenance fees at harvest time.

For resident and water users’ group member Naomi Br Manik, the appeal is lasting access to water. She said residents would choose the pump over gold because it could help their fields support future generations.