Introduction

One of the simplest and most economical uses of solar energy is for pumping water. With advances in pumps and pump controllers, solar water-pumping systems have become fairly easy to install, operate, and maintain. If you live beyond the reach of the grid, have a remote pumping need, or need to cut costs on applications like irrigation, livestock watering, fish farming or water supply in remote locations such villages, schools, hospitals, farm houses and swimming pools, then a solar-electric pump system can be a solution that is reliable and sustainable.

Technology

Solar water pumping systems require site assessments and design before the system components are purchased and installed. Each component must be carefully matched to the others, and to the load, so proper planning is essential, the results will be an efficient, reliable system that will be functioning for years to come. The pumps provide individual solutions to water problems where conventional water supply systems fail or simply cannot reach. Solar panel powered pumps are used to pump groundwater or surface water to a reservoir which feeds domestic outlets. Compared to the use of a diesel or electricity-powered pump, the initial capital cost of a solar-powered system is high but the running and maintenance costs are low since there is no fuel or electric bill to pay for. The life cycle cost is lower because you can save substantially on reduced maintenance cost with no energy costs. A reservoir is used to provide water when there is no sunshine to power the system and should have the capacity to provide up to 5 days’ water consumption, depending on climatic conditions.

Advantages

Solar Water pumping systems have the advantages of a long life span (up to 25 years), easy installation, no maintenance, high efficiency, low lifecycle cost, quiet operation and environmentally friendliness.