What is a solar water pumping system

A solar water pumping system is used to extract the water to the different distribution systems. That is, water is extracted from a low point to a high point, such as groundwater or reservoirs, and even from surfaces, such as storage tanks. Now, how exactly does a solar-powered water pumping system work? What types of water pumps can we find? And what are the components that are needed to carry out a water pumping with solar energy?

What is a solar water pumping system

Learn in this article everything you need to know about the solar water pumping system. Continue reading for more information.

What is a solar powered water pumping system?

Solar-powered water pumping allows get water from underground and send it to distribution systems through the energy obtained from the solar panels. That is to say, the pumping of water by solar energy is not connected to the electrical network, the generator and the pump work with the electricity that is generated in the solar photovoltaic installation, extracting the water and distributing it in the storage tanks that are connected to the distribution systems.

One of the advantages of pumping water by solar energy is that it can be used in places where the electricity grid does not reach. That is, it allows the exploitation of arid zones. In addition, of course, to being an installation that generates clean energy since fossil fuels are not used to work. Likewise, it must be taken into account that other solar-powered water pumping systems are used to a greater extent when more water is needed, that is, when there is more radiation and when it is hotter —which is why, the operation of solar panels is more effective—.

Types of systems for solar water pumping

Depending on the installation, the pump used and the type of irrigation to be carried out, it will be necessary to use a solar water pumping system or another. In general terms, we can distinguish 3 types that vary according to the construction of the pump, according to its location and according to the type of motor used. We see it in more detail:

Depending on the construction of the pump

The solar water pumping system can vary depending on the type of pump used, since the function will change between one and the other. In this case we find two types:

• Centrifugal pump: The centrifugal pump works through a rotating system that drives the water. This is the most recommended for shallow wells, such as rivers or cisterns, it can also be submersible or surface, and is used for crop irrigation.
• volumetric pump: The volumetric pump, also known as the gradual displacement pump, is the one used to push up the water that is stored in a large volume compartment. When it reaches the mouth of the well, it equalizes and the impulse becomes invariable. This pump enables controlled irrigation through deep wells.

Depending on the location of the pump

In this case we find several pumps that vary depending on their location with respect to the water source. This can be of two types:

• Superficial: It has a self-priming mechanism that adapts perfectly to homes or drip irrigation thanks to its low consumption.
• Submersible: In this case, the pump is better suited to deep wells. It can go up to 100 meters.

According to the electric motor

The distinction, in this case, varies depending on the engine used. They can be from DC (CC) or from alternating current (AC). Keep in mind that depending on the power of the motor and how fast we want the water to be pumped, it will be necessary to install one type of solar panel or another. Of course, the amount of these will influence the power you want to achieve. The different solar panel kits for direct water pumping vary depending on the number of solar panels, as well as the rest of the elements that we explain in this article.

What to take into account when making the water pumping system with solar energy?

Something that we must always take into account when choosing the solar water pumping system, and that influences it in the type of installation that is carried out, are the water resources that we have available, as well as the solarthe required water flow and the distribution system of the most appropriate water. Special attention must also be paid to the calculation of losses and power what we will need This will be decisive to assess whether it is worth carrying out a solar water pumping installation and to decide on one or the other.

What are the components of a solar powered water pump?

The main components that we will need to carry out a water extraction or impulsion installation using solar energy are the following:

• Photovoltaic solar panels.
• Pump and motor to pump the water.
• Regulator.
• Batteries.
• Structure for solar panels.
• Other electrical components and wiring.

Of course, it will be necessary to have the elements of the water distribution and storage system, such as pipes, valves or tanks. More info