A Novel Proposed Improvement on Performance of a Photovoltaic/Water Pumping System: Energy and Environmental Analysis

Abstract

Nowadays, the world is moving toward using renewable and sustainable energy sources, as much as possible. Photovoltaic (PV) technology is one of the most popular alternatives. PVs are widely used to supply electricity for pumping systems to irrigate the farmlands. It has been proved by many scholars that PV cell temperature is a crucial factor in cell’s efficiency. In this study, a novel arrangement of a PV/pumping system has been considered, in order to enhance the pumping performance. To make it feasible, a small part of the pumped water is directed to a box-type passage at the backside of the PV module, and then connect to the water pipe and drain to the farmland. Two various flow rates of 5 and 10 L/min were tested. The results showed two proposed cases have a bit difference in their outputs. Accordingly, the temperature of modified cases did not pass beyond 36°C while, the temperature of the conventional module reaches to 72°C. This temperature reduction leads to about 50% higher electrical efficiency. From the output power point of view, more than 45% increase was observed. Also, an environment evaluation is performed and it was found that the present improvement can reduce emission of 34.57 tons CO2, annually.