Solar Pump

A solar PV water pumping system - commonly known as a solar pump - draws power from solar cell / modules to operate a motor pump set. Solar power pumps use specially developed and energy efficient motor pump sets to achieve higher discharge which off sets the high initial cost. A solar PV water pumping system consists of a number of solar PV modules connected in series - parallel combination to generate sufficient power to operate a motor pump. The solar PV modules are mounted on a metal frame in a manner that the mounting frame can be turned / tilted to ensure that the modules keep facing the sun throughout the day. The system does not have any storage battery since power generated is used directly then and there. The SPV array converts the solar energy into electricity which is used for running the motor pump set. The pumping system can draw water from the open well / bore well or stream / pond or canal.

Types of Solar Power pumps:
SPV water pumping system uses the SPV array mounted on a stand and includes one of the following motor pump sets compatible with the PV array.

Centrifugal pumps are suitable for areas where water is available at shallow depths such as open wells / stream / ponds / canals etc. They are driven by a DC motor. The total head is 14 m and maximum suction head is 7m. Better performance in the form of higher water output can be achieved when the suction head is kept at the minimum.

Submersible pumps are recommended where water table is available at higher depth ( more than 14 m ). It is highly efficient and rugged multistage pump. Pumps can be conveniently placed under water so as to lift water from up to 50 m depth.
Advantages: 

Potential for Use:
SPV pumps are more suitable for remote areas with no or unreliable grid or as an alternative to diesel pumps.  Some of the most popular applications are :