SPIS Set Up

Introduction

The Toolbox on Solar Powered Irrigation Systems (SPIS) is designed to enable advisors, service providers and practitioners in the field of solar irrigation to provide broad hands-on guidance to end-users, policy-makers and financiers. Risks related to system efficiency, financial viability and the unsustainable use of water resources can thus be minimized. The Toolbox comprises informative modules supplemented with user-friendly software tools (calculations sheets, checklists, guidelines). read more

Modules and tools touch upon:

• assessing the water requirements,
• comparing the financial viability,
• determining farm profitability and payback of investment in SPIS,
• sustainably design and maintain a SPIS,
• highlight critical workmanship quality aspects,
• and many more.

TRAINING

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NEWSLETTER

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ABBREVIATIONS

GLOSSARY

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Module Aim and Orientation

This module summarizes necessary steps for the installation of the Solar Powered Irrigation System. The design of the SPIS and the selection of the technology provider are completed (see DESIGN module). read more

The installation of an irrigation system requires planning and decision-making by the producer, as the system should be set up according to set preferences and operation requirements. This module contains the relevant process steps to be taken to finally set up the system. In this module it is assumed that the technology provider is not necessarily the service provider for the installation of the SPIS.

In the GET INFORMED module the individual components of an SPIS, as well as common system configurations are described. For each component there are several alternative technologies that also react differently when designed a particular configuration. The service provider installing the SPIS also finds useful information on its promotion in the PROMOTE & INITIATE module. During the installation, the principles on sustainable pumping should be adhered to as described in the SAFEGUARD WATER module. 

The FINANCE module gives an insight into financing SPIS components and configurations in different ways. One option discussed is to financially support the installers rather than the farmers. Additionally, the estimation of costs and financial viability of an SPIS is treated in the DESIGN module. The next module, MAINTAIN, is closely linked to this module because it describes important aspects for maintaining the installed infrastructure.

Process Steps

With the signing of a contract or purchase order with a technology provider all decisions concerning the system components have been made. The quotation or offer from the provider should include a system layout plan in which the specific installation requirements are described. The practical installation is often not done by the producer. read more

Instead, a qualified installer is required to assemble and mount the system components as required. A good quality installation lays the foundation for the reliable operation of the SPIS, taking into consideration the specific site conditions. The installation process will require active decision-making by the future user (i.e. the SPIS client or agricultural producer).

The set up or installation starts with choosing a suitable service provider. Then a detailed planning of the necessary works has to be made. In the installation planning, all requirements of the producer and the installer will be considered. Once the system components are installed, their proper functioning and the system's overall performance have to be tested.

The producer, as the future user of the system, has to follow this process closely to assure that the SPIS is installed according to the agreed planning and also to understand the system’s functionality. Upon completion of the installation, the producer should insist on receiving appropriate documentation of the system and a personal introduction to its operation.

Chapters

1. Select a suitable installer
2. Plan site preparation and installation
3. Install
4. Acceptance test PVP
5. System test
6. Documentation
7. Hand-over and user training

Tools

• SET UP 01-PVP Acceptance Test
• SET UP 02-Workmanship Quality Checklist

Further reading, links and tools Glossary Abbreviations