Revolutionizing Irrigation: The Complete Guide to Solar Water Pumping Systems
India is endowed with vast solar energy potential. The National I
nstitute of Solar Energy has assessed the Country’s solar potential
of about 748 GW assuming 3% of the wasteland area to be covered by
Solar PV modules.
Solar water pumps are becoming an increasingly popular option in the agricultural
industry and for a good reason. This article will discuss the advantages of
using solar water pumps for irrigation, the types of solar water pumps,
the PM-KUSUM Scheme, and the salient features of Ganesh Solar solar pumping solutions.
What is a Solar Water Pump?
A solar water pump is a type of pump that runs on solar energy. It consists of solar panels that convert sunlight into electricity, which is then used to power the pump. Solar water pumps are an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to traditional diesel or electric pumps which are contributing to the rise of CO2. They are easy to set up, require minimal maintenance, and have a long lifespan. Solar water pumps can be used for various applications, including irrigation, livestock watering, and drinking water supply.
Advantages of Using Solar Water Pumps for Irrigation
One of the main advantages of using solar water pumps for irrigation is that they are cost-effective. Traditional diesel or electric pumps require fuel or electricity, which can be expensive, especially for small-scale farmers. Solar water pumps, on the other hand, use solar energy, which is free and abundant. Solar water pumps also have a long lifespan and require minimal maintenance, which further reduces their long-term operational and maintenance costs. Another advantage of using solar water pumps is that they are eco-friendly. They do not emit harmful pollutants, making them an ideal option for environmentally conscious farmers.
Types of Solar Water Pumps and Their Applications
There are two main types of solar water pumps: submersible pumps and surface pumps and are available in both AC / DC models. Submersible pumps are used to pump water from wells or boreholes, while surface pumps are used to pump water from lakes, rivers, or other surface water sources. Submersible pumps are more efficient and can operate at higher heads and lower discharge of water compared to Surface Pumps. However, they are also more expensive and require a well or borehole to be installed. Surface pumps, on the other hand, are cheaper and easier to install but have a lower operating head with a higher discharge of water.