Potential use of wind power for pumping irrigation water

Abstract

The potential energy savings from three types of wind powered irrigation pumping plants were determined for selected areas of the U.S.A. The wind systems analyzed were: wind assist combustion engines; wind assist electric motors, with and without the sale of surplus electricity; and a stand-alone turbine with a reservoir for water storage. Because of the reduced wind power available and the relatively short time span during the irrigation season, the wind assist turbines will only provide between 6 and 31% of the required energy for pumping water. In all regions, the amount of electrical energy available for sale from the wind assist system is greater than the energy saved. The stand alone turbines can provide all the energy required for pumping the irrigation water; however, their use will require the installation of a reservoir for water storage. Thus, the stand-alone systems are suitable only in locations where surface irrigation systems can be used or where other energy sources can be used to pressurize the water distribution system. The size distribution of the on-farm irrigation pumping plants in the U.S. for zones of similar average wind power during the principal irrigation season is presented. The mid and southern Great Plains areas which have the largest potential wind power during the primary irrigation season account for over 32% of the nation's pumping units.