SPIS Toolbox - Install
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.
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Install
The installation of the different components of a Solar Powered Irrigation System will be carried out by a contracted qualified installer. The installer will follow the system layout and the technical specifications provided from the system technology service provider (system integrator, supplier) and the considerations of the producer with regard to location and spacing.
The installer will temporarily require access to the site and a storage and assembly space to unload and assemble the system components. This should be considered by the producer in particular on small holdings where uncultivated areas are in short supply.
The actual time required for the assembly and the mounting and connection of the different components of an SPIS depends on system size and site conditions. The installer may have to carry out the installation process in several steps. A time consuming partial work is the establishment of a proper foundation for the mounting struc-ture of the solar panels and the water storage tank (if part of the system).
These foundations are often established with reinforced concrete foundations that might require prior excavations works and curing time of cement after casting.
It is very important that the producer, and if possible also the agricultural advisor, take time to be present during the set up of the system, so that they:
- are available to provide information and to take decisions;
- can check on the completeness of all components while they are installed;
- obtain an additional understanding of the different system components, their particularities and the location of connections; switches etc. (ask questions!);
- can monitor the adherence of the installation to layout, plan and schedule (component compliance) or take note of any deviations from that due to unforeseen circumstances.
Outcome/Product
- Complete Solar Powered Irrigation System.
Data Requirements
- System layout plan (provided in contract with technology provider);
- List of components and bills of quantity;
- Installation planning.
People/Stakeholders
- Producer;
- Installation service provider;
- Agricultural service provider.
Important Issues
- Temporary space has to be made available for site access, material storage and assembly.
- Installation may have to be made in separate steps if foundation works etc. have to be done.
- The producer should be present during the installation and accompany and monitor the process.
