Investment of 18 million euros for agricultural sustainability by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the Peñarroya reservoir (Ciudad Real)

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food announces a significant investment of 18.020.000 euros (VAT not included) in a strategic hydraulic connection project. The main objective of this project is the modernization of the irrigation networks of ponds 1 and 2, establishing a direct connection with the Peñarroya reservoir, located in Ciudad Real. The execution of this infrastructure will benefit approximately 2.000 irrigators, responsible for the cultivation of 7.842 hectares in the municipalities of Argamasilla de Alba, Tomelloso and Campo de Criptana, all in the province of Ciudad Real.

The State Commercial Society of Agrarian Infrastructures (SEIASA) has formally authorized the start of the bidding process for the award of the contract for the execution of the irrigation modernization works belonging to the community of the Estrecho de Peñarroya swamp.

What purpose does this agricultural investment have?

The fundamental purpose of this initiative, which has an execution period of 18 months, is to use the hydraulic energy available in the reservoir to carry out the irrigation system. This will be achieved by creating a direct hydraulic connection from the reservoir, through a new pipeline. This innovation will provide the necessary pressure to significantly reduce dependence on pumps, thus reducing electrical energy consumption. In addition, water losses caused by the current deterioration of irrigation canals will be mitigated.

This action is an integral part of the program to improve the efficiency and sustainability of irrigation, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in line with the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan. It should be noted that this project has Next Generation funds from the European Union, with a public contribution that will cover up to 80% of the cost of eligible expenses, while the irrigator and user communities will complement the remaining percentage of the investment.