In recent years, pumping water through renewable energy has undergone a great evolution. One of the most innovative applications is the solar water pump, which uses photovoltaic energy to efficiently extract and move water.
Solar water pumps are used for various applications such as irrigating crops and orchards, extracting water from deep wells or supplying drinking water systems in rural areas. These pumps stand out for being ecological and economical, since they use the sun as their main source of energy. If you are interested in learning more about solar water pumps, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the types that exist, we invite you to continue reading this article.
What is a solar water pump and what is it for?
A solar water pump is a device used for the extraction and movement of water, powered exclusively by solar energyUnlike traditional pumps that rely on fossil fuels or grid electricity, these pumps harness solar radiation through photovoltaic panels that transform solar radiation into electrical energy.
There are several types of solar pumps, such as solar photovoltaic pump, solar thermal water pump and domestic hot water pump. Solar pumps are generally submersibles or surface, and have multiple applications, from irrigation in crop areas, drinking water systems, to installations in water projects for livestock.
They are also an effective solution in rural or remote areas where the power grid does not reach, and their application in hard to reach areas has allowed them to gain popularity in sustainable economic and agricultural development projects.
Advantages and disadvantages of solar water pumps
Like any technology that uses renewable sources, solar water pumps have both advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to be aware of them before making a decision.
Advantages
- Clean and ecological: Solar pumps do not emit polluting substances, since they use solar energy, an inexhaustible source free of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Inexhaustible and free energy: Unlike systems that rely on electricity or fossil fuels, solar pumps extract water using solar energy, making them independent of external energy supplies.
- Application in remote areas: Solar pumps are ideal for places that are not connected to the electricity grid or where transporting fuel is very expensive. This makes them an attractive option for rural communities, irrigation projects and agricultural areas.
- Less maintenance: Solar pumps require less maintenance than their fossil fuel counterparts, and their durability is often superior.
Disadvantages
- Climate dependence: Their operation depends on the availability of sunlight. On cloudy or rainy days, and at night, the performance of solar pumps drops considerably.
- High initial investment: Although pump costs have decreased, it is still a high investment compared to conventional pumps. However, this investment pays for itself over time.
- Limitation of use: In some cases, a solar pump may not provide the same power or flow rate as a conventional pump, which can be restrictive in large irrigation installations or in systems with high water demands.
Types of solar water pumps
Choosing the right type of solar pump will depend on the intended use. There are two main types of solar pumps:
- Submersible solar water pump: These pumps are ideal for extracting water from significant depths, such as wells or cisterns. They are installed underground and can extract a large amount of water, making them perfect for agricultural and livestock applications.
- Surface solar water pump: They are best suited for increasing pressure in existing water systems or for pumping water over short distances. They are mainly used for irrigating gardens, orchards and small agricultural plots.
Both pumps have their advantages and disadvantages, with submersible pumps being more suitable for projects requiring large amounts of water, while surface pumps are more economical and efficient for smaller scale applications.
What pump should I use if I water irrigated crops?
Irrigated crops require large amounts of water to be productive, so choosing the right pump is essential.
If we need to pump more than 4500 liters a day, the use of submersible pumps is recommended, which have a greater extraction capacity. These pumps can pump up to 13500 liters a day, making them the best option for large areas of land dedicated to irrigation.
However, if our demand is less than 4500 litres per day, a surface pump will be sufficient to cover the irrigation needs in small plots and gardens. These pumps are also very useful in livestock farming, to maintain the water supply in pastures.
Prices and recommendations
The price of solar pumps varies according to the power and pumping capacity. Solar water pumps from 12v, which are the most common, usually have prices around 60 Euros and are able to pump 3 liters per minute.
On the other hand, the most powerful pumps, capable of pumping 6 liters per minute, can be found by 70 Euros, which represents a minimal price difference considering the improvement in performance.
It is important to consider that the initial investment may seem high, but the long-term savings in fuel and maintenance, as well as the respect for the environment, make it worthwhile for most farmers and landowners.
Solar water pumps are an excellent option for those looking to reduce their energy costs and opt for renewable energy without compromising efficiency. Although their performance is lower on cloudy days, the economic and ecological benefits are considerable enough to remain one of the most recommended solutions for agricultural irrigation and other water-related applications. The key is to choose the right type of pump according to our specific needs.