Solar-powered irrigation: From pump calculation to storage | Agricultural Technology - Akhdar
A method for estimating pumping needs and selecting panels, reservoir, and control system for a reliable and maintainable solar irrigation project.
The idea and why it matters
The system is designed around the amount of water, the elevation, and the amount of time the sun is available, not around the power output of a single panel.
Storing water in a tank is often simpler and has a longer lifespan than storing electricity in large batteries.
practical application
Calculate the daily flow rate, total lift, and pipe losses, then select a pump that operates efficiently within the operating curve. Add dry-run and overpressure protection, a filter, and a tank level switch.
What should be measured?
Record water meters per kilowatt-hour, operating hours, tank level, network pressure, and panel performance decline. Panel cleanliness and dripper alignment affect daily results.
Mistakes and risks to avoid
Ignoring the pump's starting current, choosing thin cables, or running the network without protection will lead to costly outages. Consider the month with the worst radiation, not just the annual average.
Actionable summary
A method for estimating pumping needs and selecting panels, reservoir, and control system for a reliable and maintainable solar irrigation project.
Start small, establish a baseline, and then scale up the solution after measuring results and reviewing costs and risks.
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