In a significant advancement for irrigation technology, researchers have developed a digital twin irrigation scheme for three major irrigation projects in Binzhou City, Shandong Province. This initiative is part of a pilot program endorsed by the Ministry of Water Resources, aimed at enhancing water management through innovative digital solutions. Led by Gao Zhanyi from the State Key Laboratory of Simulation and Regulation of Water Cycle in River Basin, China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research, the project integrates a variety of technological components designed to optimize irrigation efficiency.
The three irrigation schemes—Bojili, Xiaokaihe, and Handun—are now equipped with a comprehensive digital twin structure that includes a robust database, a vertical monitoring system, canal automation, and a management platform. This technology allows for real-time data analysis and decision-making, significantly improving the efficiency of water usage. The total investment in these digital twin irrigation schemes has surpassed 42.8 million RMB Yuan, with the majority of the pilot project already operational and demonstrating promising results.
One of the standout features of this development is the application of a water schedule model, which has reportedly reduced planning time by 60% while also achieving a 6% reduction in water consumption. Additionally, the automation of canals has led to a 40% decrease in labor costs, illustrating the commercial viability of these technologies. “With the further development, updating and application of the digital twin irrigation technology, irrigation water management can be improved by increasing digital, intelligent, and precise management,” Gao explained.
This project not only enhances the efficiency of irrigation schemes but also opens up new opportunities for the energy sector. As irrigation systems become more automated and data-driven, there is potential for energy savings and reduced operational costs. Energy companies can explore partnerships with agricultural sectors to implement similar technologies, potentially leading to a more sustainable and efficient use of resources.
The insights from this research, published in the journal ‘Journal of Irrigation and Drainage’, highlight the growing intersection of technology and agriculture, paving the way for a future where precision irrigation is the norm. As the demand for sustainable practices increases, the advancements made in Binzhou City could serve as a model for irrigation projects worldwide, illustrating the commercial impacts of integrating digital technologies in traditional sectors.
