Solar Powered Water Pumping System Research Articles

External Support for Solar-Powered Water Pumping Systems in Rural Areas: A Systematic Review.

The Sustainable Development Goals emphasize coordination and integration between sectors. Solar-powered submersible water pumping systems are versatile technology that help address community drinking water, irrigation, and electricity needs. Stakeholders external to the community, particularly solar photovoltaic experts, are vital in ensuring continued system services; however, there has been no comprehensive assessment of different solar-powered water pumping system support efforts. This review is the first to systematically evaluate external support for solar-powered systems from multiple regions and implementing organizations. We reviewed solar-powered water pumping system literature to identify implemented external support and factors that affect implementation. Publication databases, organization Web sites, and citations were searched. Seventy-four studies were included and evaluated using inductive coding and thematic synthesis. We derived a framework that organized support activities and factors into three nested levels of implementation: system, program, and sector. For support efforts implemented after 2010, most support providers worked at all levels. Each provider type worked at levels aligned with their knowledge and resources and complementary to other providers' work. Drivers of support specific to solar-powered water systems were the existence of solar photovoltaic markets and infrastructure, support providers experienced with solar photovoltaics, and government and community solar advocates. We grouped support factors that study authors associated with system functionality into four categories: location and quality of support, reliability of support arrangements, frequency and timeliness of support, and policy and regulatory environment. No study outlined support for multiple uses of the systems or end-of-lifecycle care of solar panels. Solar-powered water pumping systems provide multiple community services, and their management will be bolstered by support providers collaborating to optimally apply their skill sets and create support plans that comprehensively address system versatility.

Optimized design of SynRM drive systems for high-efficiency solar water pumps

This study presents the design and implementation of a Synchronous Reluctance Motor (SynRM) with an integrated drive circuit for a 4-inch submersible pump motor, tailored for small-scale solar photovoltaic water pumping systems. The SynRM operates efficiently at low voltage levels, eliminating the need for a boost converter and allowing direct connection to low-voltage power sources. With a power output of 0.55 kW and an ultra-premium efficiency rating of 86.5%, the motor integrates the drive circuit within its casing for a compact design. It operates across a voltage range of 15 V to 95 V, using efficient buck converters for required output voltages. This paper discusses the design, optimization, and prototyping of the motor and drive circuit, highlighting innovative solutions for advancing small-scale solar-powered water pumping systems. Electric motors, especially pump motors, are major consumers of electrical energy. Enhancing their efficiency can significantly impact total energy consumption. This study's SynRM and integrated drive system, optimized for high efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness, can be directly powered by PV panels, offering a compact and efficient alternative to traditional systems.

Cost-benefit analysis of implementing a solar powered water pumping system – A case study

Solar-powered water driving scheme (SPWDS) has been successfully employed as a practical solution to guarantee reliable water supply in various hilly regions without electrical infrastructure. The Water Supply Systems / Schemes (WSS) focus on using pumping systems for delivering potable water to the community but face practical difficulties and financial hurdles at different implementation stages. These challenges encompass the practical complexities, the absence of non-renewable energy sources, and ongoing expenses for consumable and non-consumable items incurred during the water project's execution and maintenance. The present research study evaluates the performance of four water supply systems in Nepal which use solar energy as their primary power source. The key performance indicators are assessed, including the functionality index for facility distribution. Additionally, the research aims to evaluate the feasibility of transitioning from non-renewable to sustainable renewable energy source to achieve net zero energy consumption. This evaluation concentrates explicitly on calculating the cost-effectiveness index as a key metric. A proportional analysis is undertaken to evaluate the cost-benefit of the SPWDS, considering both the potential advantages and challenges associated with these initiatives. The present study affirms the technical feasibility and economic viability of operating a WSS using renewable and eco-friendly solar energy as the power source. This finding opens avenues for reducing energy consumption and contributes significantly to developing a policy framework to for tapping solar energy.

Evolving Power Factor Correction in Solar Water Pumping Systems through Zeta Converter-Based BLDC Motor Drives

The aim of this paper is to present the design and implementation of a new power conditioning system for a stand-alone solar-powered water pumping system. The system integrates a Brushless DC (BLDC) motor drive with a Power Factor Correction (PFC) Zeta converter to improve energy efficiency and reliability. In order to power BLDC motors for water pumping applications—which are essential for irrigation in isolated locations without access to the grid—the suggested solution attempts to overcome the difficulties related to the direct use of variable solar power. The PFC Zeta converter, which is the system's central component, is made to maximize power extraction from photovoltaic (PV) panels under fluctuating solar irradiation, guarantee high power factor, and reduce harmonic distortion in the electrical grid. A BLDC motor that powers a water pump is efficiently operated by this converter, which also optimizes the DC link voltage. A BLDC motor is especially well-suited for solar-powered applications due to its increased efficiency, dependability, and longer lifespan when compared to traditional induction motors. In order to continuously modify the PV panels' operating point to the maximum power point and maximize the amount of energy they capture, a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm is incorporated into the PFC Zeta converter's control strategy. The BLDC motor drive control strategy is carefully designed to guarantee seamless operation and flexibility in response to the fluctuating output from the solar panels, upholding the best possible pumping action in any solar situation. The system's capacity to sustain high efficiency and power factor under a variety of operating circumstances is demonstrated by the experimental findings. When the PFC Zeta converter is used, the solar-powered water pumping system performs much better overall. It shows a notable increase in energy conversion efficiency and lowers total harmonic distortion, which prolongs the pumping system's lifespan. By offering a solid method for raising the effectiveness and dependability of solar-powered water pumping devices, this study advances the sector and holds the possibility of a long-term water supply option for agricultural irrigation in isolated locations. In addition to utilizing renewable solar energy's environmental advantages, the suggested solution tackles the real-world difficulties associated with putting dependable and effective water pumping equipment into off-grid applications.

Design and Implementation of VSI for Solar Water Pump Control

The hardware design, implementation, and digital control method for three-phase AC induction motors based on Field-Oriented Control is discussed in this work Solar-powered water pumping systems have become an practical option for remote irrigation and water supply as renewable energy sources obtain importance. This research enhances such systems performance and dependability by employing a Voltage Source Inverter. In order to optimize the energy transfer to the water pump, the recommended approach uses the Voltage Source Inverter capabilities to transform the variable DC output of the solar panels into a controlled AC supply. The research looks at the choice of power components, control algorithms, and modulation strategies while designing the Voltage Source Inverter. The most suitable modulation strategy is determined after an in-depth review of several different approaches to ensure greater pump performance. This research clarifies on how solar energy conversion and pump control work together to provide sustainable water management in off-grid areas. The research paper "Design and implementation of VSI for Solar Water Pump Control" demonstrates how solar water pumping systems can be optimized using power electronics and control. The project addresses efficiency difficulties and operational differences to create efficient and reliable solar-powered water delivery systems, which support environmental sustainability and rural development. Based on the power of the PV panel, the P&O MPPT method calculates the submersible pump speed. The sensorless speed control method eliminates the requirement for location or speed sensors. The Black Electro-Motives Force calculates speed by estimating the flux angle in the absence of mechanical speed sensors. This method reduces costs and simplifies the system simply by eliminating the requirement for expensive and complicated speed sensors. In order to determine steady-state and dynamic performance in varying insolation conditions, a prototype 5.5 KW inverter was constructed. In conclusion up, the research provided a thorough summary of the hardware and control aspects required for Field-Oriented Control in irrigation systems. The practical outcomes of this study have the potential to spur advancements in irrigation technology and the incorporation of renewable energy, resulting in substantial gains for agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.

Energetic and highly reliable photovoltaic power source assisted water pump control system design using IoT

The tools used in agriculture are evolving quickly. The advancement of farming technology, farm infrastructure, and manufacturing facilities is ongoing. Numerous photovoltaic (PV) systems may be used in agriculture. These use cases include both standalone installations and larger systems put in place by utilities when they determine that PV technology is the most cost-effective way to meet a specific remote agricultural demand, such water irrigation for fields or cattle. The heart and soul of a solar-powered water pumping system are two solar panels. The solar cell is the smallest component of a photovoltaic panel. Here, we connect the ESP module's outputs to those from sensors installed in the PV panels' controller and water pump. With the use of the GSM module, the main controller unit may show the status of each module, such as whether the motor is on or off, on the administrator's mobile phone. In the event of a motor failure, the malfunctioning component can be identified. Challenges to agricultural land development include transport and road conditions. In this study, we'll look at the numerous options open to the farmer. The primary goal of this study is to develop a solar-powered, Internet of Things (IoT) and GSM-controlled water pump. This reduces the need for human labour (from farmers) in outlying areas. The farmer's mobile device serves as the hub for all activities.

Remote Data Acquisition System for Photovoltaic Water Pumping System in Sukkar, Pakistan

Access to high-speed internet connectivity is limited in Sukkur, Pakistan, making alternative communication technologies essential for real-time monitoring and control of photovoltaic (PV) water pumping systems. This research paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of a GSM-based remote data acquisition and logging system for a PV water pumping system in Sukkur. Leveraging abundant sunlight in the region, the proposed system utilizes 2G GSM technology for communication between the PV system and the remote monitoring station. A network of sensors captures key parameters, and the acquired data is processed, stored, and transmitted using 2G GSM, enabling remote access and real-time monitoring from any location with GSM coverage. The implemented system incorporates an Arduino microcontroller for core operation and employs an SD card for data logging. Real-time data logging allows for detailed tracking and analysis of system performance, facilitating troubleshooting and optimization. Data stored on the SD card can be transferred to a computer for further analysis using data analysis software or custom applications, providing meaningful representation of trends and insights into system operation. The system also features an OLED display for real-time feedback on essential parameters, including solar irradiance, water level, and pump status. Furthermore, the integration of user prompts and GSM communication enables remote monitoring and control, empowering users to inquire about system status and remotely activate or deactivate the pump through SMS commands. The system offers a robust and adaptable solution for efficient management and maintenance of the solar-powered water pumping system in Sukkur, Pakistan.

IS SOLAR AND BIOGAS A BETTER CHOICE THAN ELECTRICITY AND DIESEL?

This study measures the cost-effectiveness of alternate energy sources for irrigation in Pakistan. Primary data has been collected from eight districts of three provinces of Pakistan. Overall, 223 farmers were personally interviewed out of which, 58 farmers were using electric tube-well, 95 diesel tube-well, and 35 each for solar and biogas-operated tube-wells. The cost of extracting one cubic meter of water through electricity, diesel, subsidized electricity, biogas, and solar was $0.180, $0.013, $0.011, $0.010, and $0.005, respectively. The paper concludes that water pumping using alternative energy sources is cost-effective. Major constraints to adopting solar-powered water pumping systems were the high upfront cost, the lack of awareness, and the lack of available spare parts. The constraints to adopting biogas were difficulty operating and managing through winter.

SIZING ALGORITHM OF SOLAR-POWERED WATER PUMPING SYSTEM FOR DOMESTIC APPLICATION USING PARTICLE SWARM OPTIMIZATION

Due to some issues faced in rural areas such as increasing water demand, the limited reach of electricity, as well as the scarcity of fossil fuel and its negative impact on the environment, renewable energy water pumping systems emerges as an excellent solution to solve those problems. In this case, the components in the renewable energy water pumping system ought to be optimized to improve the effectiveness of the system. This study was aimed at developing and analyzing an optimization model for the sizing of solar-powered water pumping systems for domestic applications. The sizing algorithm was developed using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) in MATLAB software. As a result of optimization, a summary of the main findings was provided, which include the optimal values for the number of solar panels, water tank capacity, and water pump power that minimize system costs and fulfill the water demand simultaneously. To investigate the performance of the proposed algorithm, several case studies have been evaluated by varying the total dynamic head (TDH) and water demands. In summary, TDH value primarily affects the number of PV panels and pump power, leaving the water tank capacity unchanged. However, the variations in water demand can impact all three parameters: the number of PV panels, water tank capacity, and water pump power. Overall, by applying the PSO method in the sizing algorithm of a solar-powered water pumping system, the cost could be minimized, and it would be able to cover the cost of water storage that supports the water demand of a certain application.

Potential for using Solar-Powered Water Pumping Technology for Irrigating Sugarcane in Sri Lanka

Purpose: Price hike of petroleum and the non-coverage of national electricity supply in plantation sites are some shortcomings against implementing lift irrigation projects in highland sugarcane plantations. Solar energy can be used as an alternative energy source for diesel or national electricity dependent water pumping technology. The present paper demonstrates the potential of using solar-powered water pumping technology for irrigating sugarcane in Sevanagala, Pelwatta, Hingurana, Kantale, and Kilinochchi, in Sri Lanka. Research Method: The study was conducted in Sevanagala, Pelwatta, Hingurana, Kantale, and Kilinochchi, sugarcane growing areas. Technical and economical evaluation was carried out to characterize the usability of solar powered water pumping technology respective to conventional furrow irrigation and drip irrigation under different water sources i.e., tube-wells, agro-wells, small water tanks, and runoff water harvesters. Solar irradiance (W.m⁻²) and cloud cover (%) in each location were used to estimate the solar energy variations. NASA–MERRA-2 data set (GMAO, 2015) was used to derive solar irradiance for the period of 10 years from 2010 – 2019. Findings: The solar irradiance and insolation in the sugarcane plantation sites are sufficient to operate solar-powered water pumping systems. The solar irradiance and insolation in study area ranged from 218.2 kW.m⁻² to 225.4 kW.m⁻² and 5.34 kW.h.m⁻² to 5.48 kW.h.m⁻² respectively. The solar technology will greatly reduce the operating costs of irrigation, despite the high initial costs. Kilinochchi and Kantale area showed the highest and lowest profitability in using solar powered irrigation respectively. Nevertheless, Sevanagala, Pelwatta and Hingurana show medium potential for implementing solar powered water pumping systems for irrigations. Research Limitation: Limited availability of data on temporal changers of cost incurred on the irrigation practices and the fluctuation of market price of the solar powered water pumping systems were significant constraints experienced during the study period. Originality/ Value: The results of this study are highly useful for decision makers in both plantation and national level in implementation of productivity improving programs in sugarcane plantation areas in Sri Lanka.

Solar Powered Water Pumping System for a Rural Village

Solar Powered Water Pumping System for a Rural Village

Design of a Solar-Powered Water Pumping System for Irrigation in Sukkur, Pakistan

This paper presents the design of a solar-powered water pumping system that would be used for irrigation in Sukkur, Pakistan. A dependable model of the pumping system as well as the solar system is designed in PVsyst and HOMER softwares to establish the practical and economic viability of solar-powered water pumping system at the site. The proposed system consists of a submersible centrifugal multistage deep well pump and sixty 480 W solar modules. For the purpose of evaluating the backup system’s viability, a battery backup system is also connected to the system. The obtained results show that the proposed solar-powered water pumping system is a potential candidate and a viable option for employment at the selected site and at other sites that have the same conditions for water pumping and irrigation. Moreover, when compared to the cost of using nonrenewable resources, operating and maintenance costs for renewable energy systems are more manageable.

IoT based smart irrigation system for communal use

Kenya is experiencing a rapid human population growth and consequently rising demand for food. This is happening at the backdrop of adverse climatic changes currently being experienced. The problem is further aggravated by the fact that more than 80% of the country’s landmass is classified as Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs). In order to meet the food demand, there is need to divorce from rain-fed agriculture and put most of the arable land under irrigation. Since Kenya is a water scarce country, efficient irrigation systems are required. An efficient irrigation system that promotes use of rain water harvesting technologies and maximizes crop water productivity through use of appropriate sensors and wireless communication technology has been developed. The innovation involves use of farmers’ earth pans for harvesting and storing rain water and irrigating fields through drip lines. In addition, smart soil moisture sensors are fitted to each field under irrigation for real-time monitoring of soil moisture content and automatically notifying an irrigation administrator through mobile phone when crops require watering. The administrator is equipped with a tricycle fitted with solar powered water pumping system for pumping water from the earth pan to the crops. When the operator receives a signal request from water sensors in field he/she moves with the tri-cycle and services it. The smart sensors (IoT based) installed in the field will then notify him/her when sufficient amount of water has been received so that irrigation can be stopped. The operator waits for the next request from another farmer’s field to service. The technology has been tested in different portions of the university land under irrigation. The results indicate that crops receive timely watering and show no water stress. The innovation has the potential of making high tech irrigation system accessible to small scale farmers at an affordable cost and enhance food production and in turn food security in the country.

Solar Powered Water Pumping System Automation and Control Using a Microcontroller for Aquaculture

This work represents an automated solar-powered water pumping system for a fish farm located off-grid in a rural area of Pakistan. The ultrasonic water level sensor is used with the microcontroller Arduino UNO to automate the pumping system. The water level sensor is connected to the microcontroller based on the sensor programming and sensor data extraction from the water ponds of the fish farm. The microcontroller controls the water pump automatically to switch ON/OFF. This solution is very cost-effective for local farmers, and no human is needed on the site to monitor and operate the water pumping system for the fish farm. The designed system can reduce labor costs and effectively provide fish farms a smooth automated water pumping system.

Design of Solar Powered Water Lifting System for Irrigation at Chaukune Ward No.1, Surkhet, Nepal

Despite the availability of enough water in Nepal, there is difficulty in irrigation in most of the places. This is due to difficult terrain in hilly and mountainous region. Hand water pumping is possible only in terai region and grid electricity has not reached in most parts of hilly and mountainous region. For these reasons, solar water pumping from appropriate source is the best option. The main objective of this project was to design a solar powered water pumping system at Chaukune ward no 1, Surkhet district. The targeted area had water demand of 400.171 m³ per day, which was supplied from a perennial river, Budhakhola. With a distance of 732 m between the pump and reservoir, a circular reservoir of diameter 11 m, height 13 m and thickness 0.3 m was designed at an elevation of 219 m from the water surface. Solar module of rated power 87.48 kW (18 in series, 18 in parallel) was selected. The volume of storage tank is 1200.513 m³, which is sufficient to store water for 3 days. The upfront cost, operation and maintenance, replacement cost of diesel pump are about 2-4 times higher than solar photovoltaic pump. The solar pumping system does not emit greenhouse gases. Solar water pumping is found to be economically viable and environment friendly in comparison to electricity or diesel based systems for irrigation.

Solar Powered Agricultural Water Pumping with Auto Tracking

Now a days people use electric pumps to irrigate and where does not have grid electricity, they use fuel-powered pumps. However, the problem of energy is a big issue, and both fuel and electricity prices are rising. Another problem is sometimes it is hard to get fuels in rural or hilly areas. Most of the farmers are poor. To overcome these problems the project is made. It would be implemented in everywhere. The most important renewable energy source is solar energy. Light energy is converted into electrical energy by the solar panel. Agricultural technology is rapidly evolving. Farm equipment, farm structures, and manufacturing facilities are all being improved on a regular basis. There are a variety of agricultural applications for photovoltaic (PV) solutions. Person installations and systems built by utility providers when they discover that a PV solution is the best solution for a remote agricultural need like water pumping for crops or livestock. Two easy way of components make up a solar-powered water pumping system. PV panels and pumps are the items in question. The solar cell is the smallest component of a PV plate. When exposed to light, each solar cell has two or more particularly arranged layers of semiconductor material that directly generate current (DC) electricity. The panel's wiring detects this DC current. It's then either fed into a DC pump that pumps water whenever the sun shines, or it's retained in batteries for use by the pump at a later stage. In this paper, Whenever the soil get dry condition the pump can automatically on once the soil get sufficient amount of water the pump can automatically off.

Performance Study of the Direct-Coupled Photovoltaic Water Pumping System for the Rural-Isolated Agricultural Region in Iraq

The rural-isolated agricultural region in Iraq and some developing countries lack access to electricity, and thus the primarily alternative is to use diesel water pumping systems to irrigate their crops. However, due to a rise in the oil's price on the international market, toxic pollution from burning oil, high maintenance costs, and short lifespans have been challenged to create more viable alternatives. Renewable energy can limit the use of fossil fuels, particularly by using the solar-powered water pumping system. This article aimed at finding an optimal design for a direct-coupled photovoltaic water pumping system in Iraq. The article presents the significant design aspect for an optimal system, such as the groundwater aquifer depth, installation aspect, cost, and irrigation efficiency. The design offers a combination of sprinkler and environmentally sustainable and cost-effective photovoltaic technology to reduce electricity and water use. A deep well to the storage system is adopted with, 40m maximum well depth, 90m3 reservoir, 1200W submersible pump, and 1800 Wp, which can supply water to 12 greenhouses for three days. The yearly results show pumping efficiency is increased up to 42.6%, used water need is achieved at 10950 m3, and unused energy is reduced by 48.8%.

Deciphering the attitude of farmers towards solar powered water pumping systems: Lessons from Rajasthan

This study was an attempt to analyze the attitude of farmers towards solar-powered water pumping systems. The present study was conducted in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan state, which was selected purposely. The Bikaner district consists of eight tehsils; out of these, two tehsils, namely Kolayat and Poogal, were purposely selected for the present investigation based on the highest number of solar-powered water pumping systems installed during 2013–17. Further, one gram panchayat from each selected tehsil, namely Phoolasar from Kolayat and Shivnagar from Poogal, were selected purposely based on the highest number of solar-powered water pumping systems installed. The proportionate random sampling method was used to determine the user respondents, and they were called beneficiaries of the solar-powered water pumping system because they have installed it. Further, an equal number of non-beneficiary respondents from the same gram panchayats were also selected randomly who have not installed solar-powered water pumping systems, and they were called non-beneficiary respondents. Thus, 120 respondents, i.e. 60 beneficiary and 60 non-beneficiary respondents, were selected from the selected gram panchayats for the present investigation. The study's findings revealed that most of the beneficiary, non-beneficiary and overall respondents had a neutral attitude towards solar-powered water pumping systems. In the case of beneficiary respondents, “by the use of solar technologies energy crisis can be solved” had ranked first. While, in the case of non-beneficiary and overall respondents, “use of these technologies requires more skill” had ranked first. Education, annual income, occupation, extension agency contact and mass media exposure were found to be positively and significantly associated with the attitude of respondents towards solar-powered water pumping systems.

An Improved Control Technique for Grid Interactive 4-Phase SRM Driven Solar Powered WPS Using Three-Level Boost Converter

This article aims to develop a unique configuration of a solar-powered water pumping system (SPWPS), which ensures an uninterruptable water supply along with the earning possibility for the consumer. This water pumping system utilizing the switched reluctance motor drive, needs no current sensor on the motor side to run the system. The concept of integrating the grid to the SPWPS as an electrical energy storage device, provides assistance against the fluctuations in power, minimum electricity cost and earns from excess of photovoltaic power. An efficient control logic for grid-side voltage source converter is developed in this article. It has multiple intends like to regulate the desired dc-link voltage, to maintain the power quality and to improve the dynamic responses. This controller incorporates the second- and third-order generalized integrator-based filter for fundamental component extraction of grid voltage and has the benefits of both the filters. Moreover, the new control logic for dual output boost converter as a maximum power point tracking converter is also proposed in this article. It helps to simultaneously maximize the solar power as well as to nullify the voltage asymmetry across both dc-link split capacitors of a mid-point converter under all operating modes. The applicability of the developed arrangement with designed control logic is verified by experimental results.

Solar PV powered SRM driven Water Pumping System Using Modified SEPIC Converter

The paper has the objective to design a solar powered water pumping system employing a switched reluctance motor (SRM) and to analyse it’s performance using simulation. On comparison to other ac and dc motor drives, SRM possess several features like wide speed range, high power density, low inertia and quick response. This system comprises a modified SEPIC converter as an intermediate DC-DC converter, which provide high voltage gain with reduced stress. Incremental conductance algorithm helps to track maximum power from PV panel. The SRM is controlled by closed loop control with current and speed as feedback signals.The system is designed and simulated for 1.2kW water pumping system under various insolation levels. The results shows that the system is apt for SPV fed water pumping system. Simulation studies indicate that both the steady state and dynamic performances are found to be satisfactory under various test conditions.