The Basics of a Solar Powered Pump

Access to safe water is a major challenge in many parts of the world. For farmers who rely on groundwater to grow their crops, solar powered pumps can be an important solution.

Pumps are rated by how much pressure and flow they can deliver. To save energy, wire the pump directly to PV and choose panels rated at or slightly higher than this power rating (if necessary, the product literature will specify). A controller is also typically included.

1. Solar Panels

Solar pumps draw energy directly from the sun, eliminating fuel costs and saving on ongoing power bills. They can also operate far from grid power, making them a viable alternative for off-grid communities.

A solar pump uses the sun’s energy to drive mechanical bits, moving water from a river, storage tank or underground well to a set destination such as an agricultural field or home. The type of pump selected depends on the needs of the community, how high the water has to be lifted and whether there is a need for a pressurised system (requiring battery support).

Solar panels are the heart of a solar powered pump and make up up to 80% of its overall cost. They need to be oriented optimally to capture sunlight, particularly in cloudy weather or during the shorter winter days. This is why it is important to consult a declination map before installing solar panels. A solar tracker can be used to adjust the position of the PV array as the sun moves throughout the day.

Another benefit of PV systems is that they require minimal maintenance compared to fossil fuel pumps, particularly if the pumps are not submerged in water. However, they do need to be cleaned regularly to ensure they are free of dust and debris. This is often done by villagers themselves, as opposed to travelling to service centres, which helps to keep costs down and increase reliability.

2. Pump

The solar water pump is the heart of the system and consists of an electric motor that turns on when the sun shines. The motor sucks up water from the well or reservoir and pushes it through pipes, making it solar powered pump available for household use. The type of pump you choose depends on how deep into the ground or into the water reservoir you need to go, how high the head needs to be, and whether you want a surface or submersible pump.

Solar powered pumps are more reliable than traditional electricity or diesel powered water pumps, and they don’t need a battery or generator. They can also be used to pump water when grid power is unavailable or impractical, and they don’t require maintenance or replacement parts as frequently as fuel or diesel-powered pumps.

The basic components of a solar pump system are solar panels, a solar charge controller, and a DC water pump. The solar charge controller converts the direct current (DC) from the PV panel into alternative current (AC) that the water pump can operate on. You’ll also need a breaker or fuse box and electrical wiring to complete the system. Solar-powered pumps are also a more environmentally friendly option than traditional pumping systems, as they don’t produce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.

3. Controller

Solar water pumps are becoming increasingly popular for use in developing countries where grid electricity is not available. They offer a cost-effective, sustainable solution for well, livestock and irrigation water needs.

A solar water pump system consists of a solar panel array, a solar charge controller, a DC water pump, and electrical wiring. The solar panel array converts solar energy into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) technology, and the solar charge controller converts this energy into alternating current to run the water pump.

Most solar pump systems include a water storage tank to hold the pumped water for non-sunny days. Most also feature a float switch to prevent overflow and an automatic shut-off for when the water tank is full. In some cases, a battery is added to the system to allow the pump to operate even when the sun isn’t shining.

For many farmers, access to clean, safe water is critical for their livelihood. However, most agricultural fields are located far from a town or city, making it difficult to bring water to these areas. A solar powered pump provides a reliable alternative to erratic grid supply or polluting diesel generators, and ensures that crops are irrigated when they need it most. This creates a virtuous cycle – harvesting energy when the sun is shining, and delivering the water at a time that is best for the crops.

4. Battery

A battery is an essential component of a solar powered pump because it allows excess renewable energy to be stored and used at night or during cloudy days. Deep-cycle batteries are most commonly used in solar pumps, but other options exist. The battery will need to be paired with a charge regulator, as well as blocking diodes that prevent the PV array from draining the batteries.

Solar powered pumping systems (SPPS) provide a vital service in remote locations where grid electricity is impractical or expensive. They improve food security, increase community health, and reduce poverty by allowing farmers to grow crops and livestock using clean solar energy.

Ideally, the SPPS should have a lifetime of EV Charger 20-25 years with little electrical maintenance. This lifespan will depend on the photovoltaic modules, controller, batteries and PV array being properly maintained and protected from wind, rain, lightning and hail.

The site location of the SPPS is also a key factor in feasibility. Peak sunlight hours (PSH) vary across Colorado, and the more PSH available at the SPPS site, the less solar storage is needed to run the system.

Solar fountain batteries typically last 12-18 months, but may decrease in capacity with repeated charge/discharge cycles. To extend the life of a solar fountain battery, try giving it a boost charge by leaving it outside in sunny conditions for 2-3 days to allow for maximum charge. Then, remove the old battery and replace with 4 standard AA rechargeable batteries by opening the cover featured on the back of the solar panel.