In 2024, California’s Turlock Irrigation District began building 8,500 feet of solar canopies over irrigation canals to test water savings, maintenance benefits and power generation

Project Nexus in California is testing solar panels installed above irrigation canals.

This initiative aims to generate electricity while reducing water evaporation.

The project also explores limiting aquatic vegetation growth and optimising infrastructure use.

Researchers are evaluating structural designs and energy storage capabilities.

Findings will determine the feasibility of scaling this approach across the state.