Nepal, April 22 -- Modern solar technology development is gradually shaping agriculture. Solar dryers and cookers were first introduced in Nepal in 1981. Despite this, agriculture remains subsistence-based, relying on traditional drying methods. This results in high post-harvest losses due to inadequate drying and storage facilities, issues that continue to affect Nepali farmers. Several studies have established that conventional drying processes are inefficient, prone to contamination and spoilage and dependent on weather conditions, rendering them unreliable.

This piece is based on my participation and interactions with key stakeholders at a scaling event for solar-powered drying technology in Nepal. Additionally, I had the opportunity...