Media center
Solar water pumps are embraced in different corners of the world. The system utilizes solar energy for production of electricity. The solar panels are used to capture the sun rays and convert them to direct current electricity. This electricity is used to power the water pumps. This has been of great advantage to different parts of the country. They are a reliable source of water for communities, is environment-friendly, and has low operation costs.
How do solar water pumps work?
There are water pumps that are designed to utilize solar power to operate. These work by converting the sun rays (technical term is photons), to electricity to operate the pump. Solar panels are strategically and suitably put in place to capture the photons from the sunlight. This produces direct current (DC) which in turn provides energy for the motor to pump water from the source. The pumped water can then be used for various needs such as agricultural use, domestic use, and other applications.
What are the components of a solar-powered water pump system?
There a number of components that make up the entire solar-powered water pump system:
Solar panels
As mentioned above, the solar panels are responsible for collecting the photons and converting them into DC electricity. This is the electricity that the water pump utilizes to operate.
Water pump motor
The water pump motor is tasked with taking water from the available source, be it underground or other source, so it can be used for different purposes.
Inverter
The solar panels work to convert sunlight photons into DC electricity, but the water pump operates in AC electrical current. This is where the inverter comes in handy– it serves to covert the direct current into usable AC.
Pump controllers
The controllers are included in the system to regulate the water pump and allowing it to be turned on and off. They are very important as they increase the lifespan of the pump by protecting it motor damage or electrical irregularities. They also ensure optimal water delivery.
Pipes
A network of pipes is required to transport the pumped water from the source to where it is required. This can be a holding tank or a purification system.
What are the benefits of solar-powered water pumps?
Adopting solar power in the water pumping has brought about a number of benefits. Without these pumps, many of the communities in the developing countries would need to rely only on rainfall and other inaccessible water sources.Thankfully, solar-powered water pumps have revolutionized the process. Below are some of its advantages:
1. Low operation cost
The initial set up cost of the system is very affordable as the cost of the solar panels has significantly dropped. Also, operating costs are notably lower than those of other systems.
2. Environment-friendly method
Given that the sun is a renewable source of energy, it means that the source is from nature. There is no emission of toxins during production of the electricity. This makes solar-powered pumps clean sources.
3. Easy to maintain
The solar powered system has a few mechanical parts. They are often very durable and there is reduced need for repairs once installed.
4. Applicable in remote places
The system relies on the sun to provide the energy, hence, no external power is needed. This means that the system can be used in the most remote places that have no access to a power grid.
5. Reliable
Sunshine is a reliable source of energy. This reliability trickles down to the entire system. As long as there is sunlight, you are guaranteed of electricity. Even when cloudy, there is the option
of a battery backup.
Conclusion
Solar power has brought many possibilities. The solar-powered water pump system is much more appreciated in communities with water deficiencies. This way they get to enjoy a reliable water delivery system throughout the year for their domestic, irrigation, and agricultural needs.