Solar Agricultural Irrigation Systems

What is a solar agricultural irrigation system?

Solar agricultural irrigation systems are irrigation solutions in which a submersible pump in a well is operated via solar panels and an appropriate controller without using grid electricity or fuel. In fields where the power grid is far away, they eliminate the fuel and maintenance costs of diesel engine pumps, offering an economical alternative in the long run. The category includes packaged systems in various power ratings such as 2 HP and 30 HP; package contents are stated in the product description.

How does the system work?

During the day, the solar panels generate energy; the controller converts this energy into the form required by the pump, and the pump draws water from the well and delivers it directly to the irrigation line or a storage tank. Since no battery is used, the system operates during daylight hours; if water is also needed at night or on cloudy days, a water storage tank is used. Flow rate varies throughout the day depending on solar irradiance.

How is the system sized?

• Water requirement: The daily water volume is determined based on the area to be irrigated, crop type, and irrigation method.
• Well data: The well depth, static and dynamic water levels, and well yield must be known.
• Head: The water level, storage tank or irrigation point elevation, and pipe losses are added together.
• Panel area: The number of panels required and the installation area are planned according to the pump's power.

These calculations are important to avoid overworking the well and to ensure the system provides sufficient water year-round.

Installation and operation

The panel mounting structure must be wind-resistant, and protection of the panels against theft should be considered. Using a level sensor in the well protects the pump from dry-run operation. Panel surfaces must be cleaned more frequently in dusty agricultural environments.

Frequently asked questions

Is solar irrigation more advantageous than a diesel engine pump?

Operating costs are lower in the long run since there are no fuel or maintenance expenses; however, the initial investment is higher.

Can irrigation be done at night?

Night-time irrigation is possible by pumping water into a storage tank during the day.

How many acres can be irrigated?

The irrigable area depends on the pump's flow rate, the irrigation method, and the crop's water requirements.

Can I use my existing pump?

Many AC submersible pumps can be powered by solar energy with a suitable solar pump inverter.

What happens on cloudy days?

The pump's flow rate decreases; using a storage tank compensates for these periods.

What information should I prepare to request a solar irrigation quote?

You can share information on the well depth, water level, area to be irrigated, and irrigation method.