FAQs

Acres of Ice is a pioneering climate adaptation company that addresses water scarcity in high-altitude regions through innovative water management solutions. Founded by Dr. Suryanarayanan B., a glaciologist, and Basit Afzal, a micro-irrigation specialist, we specialize in building Automated Ice Reservoirs (AIRs) and precision irrigation systems for mountain communities.

Our mission is to enhance water security for communities facing seasonal water shortages by combining indigenous knowledge with cutting-edge automation technology.

We address critical water challenges in high-altitude desert regions, particularly in the Himalayas and similar mountain ecosystems worldwide:

• Seasonal water shortage: Communities face severe water scarcity during spring sowing season
• Climate change impacts: Accelerating glacial retreat and erratic snowfall patterns
• Agricultural water stress: Insufficient irrigation water for crops during critical growing periods
• Community displacement risk: 10% of Ladakh’s villages may face abandonment by 2050 due to water scarcity
• Inefficient water use: Traditional flood irrigation wastes up to 50% of applied water

Acres of Ice is headquartered in Leh, Ladakh, India, giving us deep local expertise in high-altitude water management. We were founded in March 2023 and have been operational for over two years, during which we’ve grown from 2 founders to a team of 14 dedicated specialists.

Our Ladakh base provides us with direct access to the communities we serve and intimate understanding of local conditions, challenges, and cultural context.

Our innovative work has been recognized through several prestigious awards and platforms:

• Mountain Future Award for innovative mountain water solutions
• HKH Innovation Challenge for Entrepreneurs (HKH-ICE) recognition
• Published research in peer-reviewed journals on ice reservoir technology
• International speaking engagements at climate adaptation conferences
• Media coverage in leading climate and technology publications

Automated Ice Reservoirs (AIRs) are intelligent water storage systems that capture and freeze winter water into large ice structures that melt gradually during spring and summer when water is most needed. Our systems use advanced automation to optimize ice formation while preventing system failures.

Key components include:

• Smart sensors: Monitor weather conditions, water temperature, and pipeline pressure
• Wireless valve control: Automatically switches between spray and drain modes
• Solar-powered operation: Completely off-grid and sustainable
• Remote monitoring: Real-time data collection and SMS-based control
• 3D-printed fountains: Custom-designed nozzles for optimal ice formation

While building on the indigenous knowledge of ice stupas and artificial glaciers, our AIRs represent a major technological advancement:

• 24/7 automation: No manual intervention required vs. daily manual monitoring
• Pipeline freeze prevention: Intelligent drain mode prevents costly system failures
• Higher ice volumes: 18-46 lakh litres vs. typical 10 lakh litres for traditional systems
• Remote operation: 2-kilometer wireless range for valve control
• Weather-responsive: Automatically adapts to changing conditions
• Reduced maintenance: Monthly vs. weekly/daily maintenance requirements
• Data collection: Continuous monitoring provides insights for optimization

AIR storage capacity varies based on local conditions, but significantly exceeds traditional methods:

• Current range: 18-46 lakh litres per system (1.8-4.6 million litres)
• Record performance: Ursi village achieved 46 lakh litres in 2024-25
• Water equivalent: Ice converts to approximately 80% water volume when melted
• Duration: Ice typically lasts from November through August in well-shaded locations
• Peak availability: Maximum water release during April-June growing season
• Future potential: Next-generation systems target 4x larger volumes

Our wireless valve control system represents the first time ice reservoir valves have been operated wirelessly at this scale:

• 2-kilometer range: Control valves from up to 2km away in mountainous terrain
• Mesh network: Multiple Valve Node PCBs create redundant communication paths
• SMS integration: Remote control via simple text commands
• Real-time status: Continuous feedback on valve positions and system health
• Emergency protocols: Automatic failsafe modes prevent system damage
• Low power consumption: Solar-powered operation even in harsh winter conditions

AMIS represents our expansion into precision agriculture, combining drip irrigation with IoT sensors and intelligent automation to optimize water use at the field level. These systems deliver water directly to plant root zones in precisely calculated quantities based on real-time environmental conditions.

AMIS technology includes:

• Precision drip irrigation: Water delivered directly to root zones
• Soil moisture sensors: Real-time monitoring of plant water needs
• Weather integration: Automatic adjustments based on temperature, humidity, and wind
• Solar-powered controllers: Sustainable operation in remote locations
• Mobile app control: Farmers can monitor and adjust systems remotely

AMIS delivers exceptional water efficiency improvements over traditional irrigation methods:

• 60-70% water savings compared to flood irrigation methods
• 15-45% additional efficiency over conventional drip systems through automation
• Reduced evaporation: Direct root zone delivery minimizes water loss
• Optimized timing: Irrigation during optimal conditions maximizes absorption
• Precise application: Eliminates overwatering and runoff
• Extended growing season: Efficient water use enables longer cultivation periods

AMIS technology is highly adaptable and works effectively across diverse agricultural applications:

• High-value crops: Apricots, apples, vegetables, medicinal plants
• Traditional staples: Barley, wheat, legumes
• Farm sizes: From small kitchen gardens to large commercial operations
• Greenhouse cultivation: Controlled environment agriculture
• Fruit orchards: Tree crops with varying water requirements
• Desert reclamation: Converting barren land to productive agriculture

AMIS and AIR systems work together to create a complete water management cycle:

• Winter storage: AIRs capture and store water during cold months
• Spring distribution: AMIS efficiently delivers stored water to crops
• Optimized utilization: Every liter of stored water is used with maximum efficiency
• Extended water availability: Stored ice provides irrigation water throughout growing season
• Integrated monitoring: Combined data from both systems optimizes overall water management
• Climate resilience: Complete solution adapts to changing water availability

We provide comprehensive drip irrigation solutions tailored to high-altitude conditions:

• Basic drip kits: Simple, affordable systems for small-scale farmers
• Automated drip systems: Smart irrigation with sensor integration
• Pressure-compensating emitters: Consistent water delivery across varying terrain
• Filtration systems: Protecting drip systems from mountain water sediments
• Solar pumping solutions: Off-grid water delivery systems
• Greenhouse irrigation: Specialized systems for protected cultivation

Yes, we provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure successful system operation:

• Installation training: Hands-on guidance for system setup
• Operation workshops: Teaching farmers optimal irrigation scheduling
• Maintenance education: Preventive care to extend system life
• Troubleshooting support: Rapid response to technical issues
• Seasonal consultations: Adapting irrigation strategies throughout growing season
• Water Management Committee development: Building local capacity for system management

Yes, our drip irrigation systems are specifically designed for high-altitude conditions:

• Freeze-resistant components: Materials selected for extreme temperature variations
• Seasonal installation: Systems designed for easy winterization and spring setup
• Buried mainlines: Protected distribution lines prevent freeze damage
• Drainage capabilities: Complete system drainage prevents freeze-expansion damage
• UV-resistant materials: Components withstand intense high-altitude solar radiation
• Local adaptation: Systems tested and proven in Ladakh’s harsh climate

We currently operate across seven villages in Ladakh with plans for rapid expansion:

• Current sites: Igoo, Likir, Sakti, Ursi, Ayee, Tuna, and Stakmo
• Geographic coverage: Leh and Kargil districts of Ladakh
• Community sizes: From 5-household hamlets to 360-household villages
• Altitude range: 3,300-4,500 meters above sea level
• Diverse terrains: Valley floors, mountain slopes, and desert areas
• Water sources: Glacial streams, springs, and river access points

Our site selection follows a comprehensive evaluation process:

• Community engagement: Approval from village leaders and water management committees
• Water scarcity assessment: Household surveys to identify severity of water challenges
• Technical feasibility: Mobile connectivity, road access, and water source quality
• Climate suitability: Sustained freezing temperatures and favorable conditions
• Terrain analysis: Slope, soil stability, and installation accessibility
• Social impact potential: Prioritizing communities facing greatest water stress

Installation timelines vary by system complexity and site conditions:

• AIR systems: 2-3 days for complete installation and commissioning
• Basic drip irrigation: 1-2 days for typical farm installation
• AMIS installations: 3-5 days including sensor network setup
• Large-scale projects: Several weeks for comprehensive water management systems
• Training period: Additional 1-2 days for community training
• Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions may extend timelines

We provide comprehensive capacity building to ensure sustainable operation:

• Water Management Committee training: Local leadership development
• Technical operation workshops: Hands-on system management training
• Maintenance protocols: Preventive care and troubleshooting skills
• Data monitoring training: Understanding system performance metrics
• Emergency response: Rapid problem identification and basic repairs
• Ongoing support: Regular check-ins and advanced training opportunities

Our 2024-25 implementation delivered significant measurable results:

• Total water storage: 184 lakh litres of ice across seven villages
• Community impact: 1,000+ direct beneficiaries across seven communities
• Agricultural improvement: 87.5% of Ursi households reported increased income
• System reliability: Minimal pipeline freezing events across most sites
• Automation success: 90%+ fountain operation time in optimal conditions
• Technology breakthrough: First wireless valve control in ice reservoir systems

Communities experience multiple interconnected benefits from our water management systems:

• Increased agricultural income: Higher crop yields and extended growing seasons
• Food security: More reliable water supply for essential food production
• Reduced migration: Young people staying in villages due to improved water availability
• Labor savings: 80% reduction in irrigation management time with automation
• Crop diversification: Ability to grow water-intensive vegetables and cash crops
• Community resilience: Reduced vulnerability to climate variability and drought
• Women’s empowerment: Reduced water collection burden enabling other economic activities

Our water management solutions deliver significant environmental advantages:

• Water conservation: 60-70% reduction in water consumption compared to traditional irrigation
• Soil health improvement: Precise irrigation prevents soil erosion and nutrient leaching
• Carbon sequestration: Supporting vegetation growth and agricultural productivity
• Reduced pressure on natural water sources: More efficient use of available water resources
• Prevention of desertification: Maintaining agricultural viability in marginal lands
• Solar-powered operation: Completely renewable energy systems with zero emissions
• Ecosystem preservation: Supporting traditional agricultural landscapes and biodiversity

We employ comprehensive monitoring and evaluation methods:

• Real-time sensor data: Continuous monitoring of system performance and water usage
• Drone surveys: Monthly volumetric analysis of ice formation and melt patterns
• Household surveys: Regular assessment of community benefits and challenges
• Agricultural output tracking: Crop yield measurements and income improvements
• System reliability metrics: Uptime, maintenance frequency, and technical performance
• Long-term impact studies: Multi-year analysis of community resilience and adaptation
• Third-party verification: Independent assessment of social and environmental outcomes

We have ambitious but achievable expansion plans to scale our impact:

• Scale target: Managing 30 AIR systems by winter 2025-26 (4x current scale)
• Geographic expansion: Extending to Kargil, Zanskar, and Spiti regions
• International reach: Pilot projects planned in Nepal and Peru
• Technology improvements: 4x larger ice volumes through enhanced automation
• AMIS integration: Comprehensive water management from storage to efficient utilization
• Desert reclamation projects: Large-scale land restoration using precision irrigation
• Research partnerships: Collaborations with international universities and climate organizations

Our technology has global applicability across mountain regions facing similar challenges:

• Hindu Kush Himalayas: 12,400 villages across India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bhutan
• Andes Mountains: High-altitude communities in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Ecuador
• Central Asian mountains: Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan
• North American Rockies: Alpine communities facing water scarcity
• European Alps: Mountain agriculture adaptation to climate change
• Global scope: 14,000+ glacial-fed villages supporting 14 million people worldwide
• Desert regions: Any arid area with seasonal water availability

We’re developing scalable systems for rapid technology deployment:

• Modular design: Standardized components for faster installation and reduced complexity
• Local manufacturing: Regional production centers to reduce costs and shipping
• Training programs: Certified installer networks in target regions
• Digital platforms: Remote monitoring and support systems for global operations
• Partnership model: Collaborations with local organizations and governments
• Open-source elements: Sharing key technologies to accelerate global adoption
• Supply chain optimization: Efficient procurement and logistics systems

We’re actively seeking strategic partnerships to accelerate our global impact:

• Government agencies: Water management and rural development departments
• International NGOs: Organizations focused on climate adaptation and water security
• Research institutions: Universities studying mountain hydrology and climate change
• Technology companies: IoT, sensor, and automation system manufacturers
• Impact investors: Organizations supporting scalable climate solutions
• Development banks: Multilateral and regional institutions funding water infrastructure
• Local implementers: Community organizations with deep regional expertise

Our systems integrate multiple sensor types for comprehensive environmental monitoring:

• Weather monitoring: Air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation sensors
• Water management: Flow rate, water temperature, and pipeline pressure sensors
• Soil conditions: Moisture, temperature, and salinity monitoring for AMIS systems
• System health: Valve position feedback, battery voltage, and communication status
• Ice monitoring: Time-lapse cameras and periodic drone surveys for volume measurement
• Data logging: Local storage with cloud backup for data security and analysis

Our intelligent decision-making system processes multiple variables in real-time:

• Temperature thresholds: Air and water temperature analysis for optimal freezing conditions
• Pipeline safety: Preventing freezing damage through predictive temperature monitoring
• Weather forecasting: Integration with meteorological data for proactive operation
• Historical patterns: Machine learning from previous seasons to optimize performance
• Wind conditions: Adjusting spray patterns based on wind speed and direction
• Energy management: Solar battery levels and power consumption optimization
• Manual override: Remote SMS commands for emergency situations or special conditions

Our custom fountain designs are optimized specifically for ice formation efficiency:

• Droplet size optimization: Precise nozzle geometry for optimal freezing rates
• Multiple variants: High-flow and low-flow designs for different water availability scenarios
• Freeze-resistant materials: Specialized plastics that withstand extreme temperature cycles
• Easy maintenance: Modular design allows quick replacement and cleaning
• Site-specific customization: Adapted to local wind patterns and terrain conditions
• Iterative improvement: Continuous design refinement based on field performance data
• Cost-effective production: On-demand 3D printing reduces inventory and shipping costs

Our systems are engineered for the harshest high-altitude environments:

• Temperature extremes: Proven operation from -22°C to +40°C
• High winds: Robust mounting systems and wind-resistant pipeline designs
• Heavy snow loads: Structural components rated for significant snow accumulation
• UV resistance: Materials selected for intense high-altitude solar radiation
• Dust protection: Sealed enclosures for electronic components
• Power management: Battery backup systems for extended cloudy periods
• Communication redundancy: Multiple pathways for system connectivity

We work with diverse partners across government, development, and research sectors:

• NABARD: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development funding for multiple sites
• Mercy Corps Ventures: Supporting implementation in remote villages
• Irrigation & Flood Control Department, Leh: Government collaboration and technical support
• GIZ (German International Cooperation): Drone survey and monitoring support
• University of Ladakh: Research collaboration and field testing
• King’s College London: Academic research partnerships
• University of Fribourg, Switzerland: Technical guidance and knowledge exchange

We welcome various forms of collaboration and partnership:

• Implementation partnerships: Joint project delivery in new regions
• Technology collaboration: Sharing expertise in sensors, automation, or water management
• Research partnerships: Joint studies on climate adaptation and water security
• Funding partnerships: Supporting expansion to underserved communities
• Capacity building: Training programs and knowledge transfer initiatives
• Policy advocacy: Supporting enabling environments for water management innovation
• Supply chain partnerships: Local manufacturing and component sourcing

Yes, we believe in scaling impact through knowledge sharing and technology transfer:

• Technology licensing: Licensing our automation systems for local implementation
• Training programs: Comprehensive technical training for partner organizations
• Open-source components: Sharing selected technologies to accelerate global adoption
• Implementation manuals: Detailed guides for system installation and operation
• Technical support: Ongoing consultation for licensed implementations
• Research collaboration: Joint development of next-generation technologies
• Best practices sharing: Documentation and dissemination of successful approaches