The United States—specifically California—is actively installing solar panels over irrigation canals in a pilot initiative called Project Nexus, launched in 2023.
Project Nexus is being implemented in Turlock Irrigation District (TID) in Central California.
The idea is inspired by similar projects in India, where solar canals have reduced water evaporation and generated clean energy.
Covering canals with solar panels reduces evaporation by up to 82%, helping to save an estimated 63 billion gallons of water annually in arid regions.
The panels also generate renewable electricity, making it a dual-benefit solution.
The shade created by the panels keeps water cooler and reduces algae growth—beneficial for water quality.
Other U.S. states like Arizona and Colorado are also exploring similar solar canal projects as a climate-resilient strategy.
The United States—specifically California—is actively installing solar panels over irrigation canals in a pilot initiative called Project Nexus, launched in 2023.
Project Nexus is being implemented in Turlock Irrigation District (TID) in Central California.
The idea is inspired by similar projects in India, where solar canals have reduced water evaporation and generated clean energy.
Covering canals with solar panels reduces evaporation by up to 82%, helping to save an estimated 63 billion gallons of water annually in arid regions.
The panels also generate renewable electricity, making it a dual-benefit solution.
The shade created by the panels keeps water cooler and reduces algae growth—beneficial for water quality.
Other U.S. states like Arizona and Colorado are also exploring similar solar canal projects as a climate-resilient strategy.
