Scope and Options of Solar Energy Use in Agriculture in Eastern Region of India

Groundwater abstraction to meet irrigation demand and application of water and energy efficient irrigation technologies is becoming a difficult affair due to significant energy poverty and pervasive electricity deficits in Eastern region of India. This undermines the production and productivity of small holders. This paper discusses the energy scarcity and possible remedy by the use of solar energy as this region receives abundance solar radiation due to its geographical location and 250 -300 bright sunny days per year which can be year round source of energy for agricultural use.