Photovoltaic (PV) Pumping Systems for Irrigation

Overview

Due to the falling costs of solar modules, photovoltaic pumps (PVP) are an increasingly competitive solution for irrigated agricultural production as well as other uses.

SWOT Analyses of Solar Powered Pumps

see article "Solar Powered Water Pumps"

Economics of PVP Systems

Economics of PV pumping systems for irrigation is dependent on numerous factors (source).

In general, PV pumps for irrigation can only be operated cost-efficiently under the following conditions:

• In order to reduce the energy requirements of PVP irrigation systems water-conserving and energy-saving micro-irrigation techniques have to be applied.
• The plot size for PVP irrigation should be below 4 hectares.
• High rates of system utilisation are necessary to achieve economic viability of PVP irrigation systems.
• Therefore PVP systems are limited to irrigate permanent crops and continuous crop rotation in arid climates.
• High value-added cash crops like fruits, vegetables and spices should be given preference to recoup the high initial investment.
• Low-interest loans should be available for the same reason.
• PVP irrigation systems require a careful planning of the crop schedule and are more demanding of user skills.

Case studies

This report assesses the technical maturity and the market potential for solar powered water pumping for irrigation - in Bihar, India. It provides an overview of the current usage of solar water pumps for irrigation, along with opportunities and challenges for their usage:

Potential for Solar PV Water Pumping for Irrigation in Bihar

Further Information

• Fact sheet on the advantages and disadvantages of solar photovoltaic water pumping, including real world application.
• Design of Photovoltaic Pumping
• Climate Tech Wiki: Solar Water Pumps