24 Jun 2011Rising electricity costs could spell the end of irrigation farming in South Africa.
Agricultural experts say it is becoming impossible for these farmers to operate profitably.
Dr Theo de Jager, deputy chief executive of Agri SA, said the situation was progressively deteriorating because electricity prices would rise sharply for years to come.
De Jager said 25% of South Africa’s staple foodstuffs – wheat and maize – is being produced under irrigation.
http://www.fin24.com/Economy/Power-prices-threaten-SA-food-20110624
