STUDIES ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS THROUGH NON-REIMBURSABLE FUNDS

The establishment of irrigation systems falls under the provisions of Articles 73 and 74 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and Council from December 2, 2021, and contributes to strengthening market orientation and increasing the competitiveness of agricultural farms, both in the short and long term, including a greater focus on research, technology, and digitalization. The analysis of establishing local irrigation systems will be conducted in areas not currently served by existing irrigation infrastructure and will outline the entire water cycle from source to plant, covering the components defined within the irrigation system according to current legislation. In 2024, 14 projects were financed through DR–26, with a total eligible value of 10.36 million euros. Of this amount, 6.71 million euros came from public funds, and 3.65 million euros represented the contribution of beneficiaries. In 2025, the number of projects increased to 29, almost double the previous year. The total eligible value of the projects reached 20.52 million euros, of which 13.09 million euros were public funds, and 7.43 million euros were the contribution of beneficiaries.