Gila River Indian Community Launches Solar Canal Project to Combat Water Loss and Promote Clean Energy

Gila River Indian Community in Arizona has signed an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to install solar panels over irrigation canals on its land. The first phase of the project will cover approximately 1,000 feet of canal, reducing water losses from evaporation. The project is supported by a $517,000 grant from the Bureau of Reclamation, which is implementing a grant program established by Congress to pilot solar canals. The Army Corps is expected to complete the first phase in 2025. The solar canal project is among the first in the US to break ground. It is also expected to serve as an example for other regions challenged by water conservation and clean energy goals.