In the heart of Spain’s Extremadura region, a groundbreaking approach to irrigation is making waves in the agricultural sector. Researchers, led by Sandra Millán from the Centre for Scientific and Technological Research of Extremadura (CICYTEX), have successfully demonstrated the potential of digital twins in optimizing water use for processing tomato farms. The study, published in the journal Agronomy (which translates to ‘Agronomy’ in English), offers a promising solution to the growing challenges of water scarcity and climate change.
The digital twin, named Irri_DesK, is a sophisticated tool that integrates soil moisture sensors, climate data, and simulation models to automate irrigation scheduling. “This technology allows us to adjust irrigation doses daily, ensuring that crops receive the right amount of water at the right time,” explains Millán. The system was tested over two growing seasons (2023 and 2024) on a 15-hectare commercial processing tomato plot, comparing three different irrigation strategies: conventional farmer management, a remote-sensing platform (Smart4Crops), and the digital twin-based approach.
The results were impressive. In 2023, the digital twin-based strategy achieved an economic water efficiency of 284.81 EUR/mm with a yield of 140 t/ha using 413 mm of water. Even more remarkable, in 2024, the system maintained high production levels (126 t/ha) despite more challenging conditions of spatial variability. “The digital twin allowed us to implement regulated deficit irrigation strategies while maintaining productivity and fruit quality,” Millán notes. This means farmers can save water without compromising their crops.
The implications for the agricultural sector are significant. As water resources become increasingly strained, the ability to use water more efficiently is crucial. Digital twins like Irri_DesK offer a scalable solution that can be adapted to various crops and regions. “This technology has the potential to revolutionize irrigation management, particularly in water-limited environments,” Millán says.
The study also highlights the importance of integrating multiple data sources and advanced modeling techniques to improve agricultural practices. By leveraging precision irrigation and economic use efficiency, farmers can not only save water but also reduce energy costs associated with irrigation. This dual benefit makes the technology particularly attractive for the energy sector, which is increasingly focused on sustainability and resource efficiency.
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, innovations like Irri_DesK offer a beacon of hope. They demonstrate that with the right tools and strategies, it is possible to achieve sustainable agricultural production even in the face of adversity. The research published in Agronomy sets a new standard for irrigation management, paving the way for a more resilient and efficient future in agriculture.