Irrigation has consistently returned to the center of agricultural debate amid increasing climate risk. According to data from the National Meteorological Administration (ANM) and Eurostat, the frequency of years with severe precipitation deficits has increased in Romania over the past decade, directly affecting the stability of crop production. Despite this, the area effectively irrigated remains limited—below 15% of the technical potential—according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR).

From an economic perspective, irrigation requires substantial upfront investment. The costs of rehabilitating or installing irrigation systems range between €2,000 and €4,000 per hectare, depending on the technology used and the water source. These are compounded by recurring expenses for energy, maintenance, and labor, costs that were further amplified in 2024–2025 by high electricity prices.

For medium-sized farms, the amortization of such investments depends strictly on crop structure and frequency of use. In years with relatively normal rainfall, irrigation can become a cost that is difficult to justify economically, while in drought years it ensures production continuity rather than generating additional profit.

In 2026, irrigation should be assessed as a risk-mitigation tool rather than an automatic source of revenue growth. Without a realistic evaluation of cash flow and energy costs, such investments can create long-term financial pressure.

(Photo: Freepik)