Pumping System using Solar Energy

Due to lack of electricity, high diesel prices and CO2 emissions, solar power for water pumping is a good alternative and an appealing choice for conventional diesel-based pumping systems. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of solar water pumping systems from a technical and economic point of view; to estimate the optimal system size and compare it with conventional diesel pumping systems in order to fulfill water requirements for irrigation and livestock needs. The selected site is an isolated agriculture area located Fayoum City, Egypt with a maximum required power of 443 kW peak for 121 m3/hr supplies. This study investigates three systems: diesel system, off-grid PV/battery system and PV grid extension (on-grid) system. The results showed that net present cost of PV grid extension pumping system is equivalent to three times the off-grid PV battery system and four times the diesel system. The cost of electricity is 0.07 $/kWh for the PV grid extension system, though 0.332 $/kWh for the off-grid PV battery system as well as 0.434 $/kWh for the diesel system.