Water is essential for agriculture, industries, and households. However, many parts of India face acute water shortage issues. Solar-powered water pumps provide a sustainable solution by utilizing renewable solar energy to pump water. In this blog, we provide a step-by-step guide to install a solar water pump system for irrigation or domestic usage.
Benefits of Solar Water Pumps
Some key benefits of solar water pumps over conventional diesel/electric pumps:
- Zero fuel cost - Pump runs on solar energy which is free. Reduces electricity bills too.
- Low maintenance - No moving parts, hence very low operation and maintenance costs
- Energy efficient - Solar pumps can deliver 70% electricity savings compared to conventional pumps
- Eco-friendly - No greenhouse gas emissions that diesel pumps generate
- Government subsidies - Attractive government incentives to promote solar pump adoption
Components of a Solar Water Pump System
A complete solar pump system consists of the following key equipment:
1. Solar PV panels - To generate electricity to power water pump
2. Pump set - Submersible or surface solar pump to lift and transfer water
3. Controller unit - Controls pump motor speed/flow based on water demand
4. Mounting structure - Holds solar panels in place and tilted at optimum angle
5. Water storage tank - Stores pumped water for later productive use
6. Pipes and valves - Interconnect system components as required
7. Cables and switches - To transfer power and control system
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Here are the detailed steps to install a complete solar water pump system:
1. Survey site
Conduct site survey to determine water demand, source, total head or depth, and install location. This data helps in sizing the pumping system.
2. Calculate water and power requirement
Based on survey data, calculate daily water volume needed. Then determine peak pumping flow rate and power needed to meet this demand.
3. Select solar pump components
Choose all system components like panels, pumps, cables etc. as per calculated load and power requirement. Refer solar pump supplier.
4. Mount structure installation
Prepare the groundwork needed to install mounting structure for solar modules at optimum tilt angle facing true south.
5. Install solar PV arrays
Securely mount solar panels on structure and connect panels in series or parallel as per system voltage and power needs.
6. Install pump set
For surface pumps, install the pump set near water source. Lower submersible pumps into bore well or water source pipeline.
7. Connect pipelines
Connect suction and delivery pipelines between water source and destination water storage tanks.
8. Wire the system
Run electric cables from solar panels via controller to pumps. Ground panels and use protective devices.
9. Test and commission system
Power-on system and test solar pump functioning. Fill water into storage tanks and adjust components.
Your solar water pump is now ready! The system will automatically run the pump when sunlight is available without needing any manual intervention.
Operation and Maintenance
Though solar pumps require less maintenance than conventional pumps, follow these tips for best results over system lifespan of over 15+ years:
- Periodically inspect all system components for damage or loose contacts especially before monsoon season. Tighten connections if required
- Check that panels are kept clean of dust, bird droppings etc. which may block sunlight. Clean panel surface periodically
- Verify that water storage tanks or pipes have no leakage which can reduce water supply
- Monitor pump functioning and contact supplier if output water flow becomes low over time
- Consider an annual maintenance contract with solar pump Installation Company
Choosing the Right Solar Pump
With a wide variety of solar pumps available in the market, it is crucial to select the right pump that meets your specific water flow and head requirements. Here are some tips to select optimal solar pump for your needs:
1. DC Surface Solar Pumps:
These are affordable low-capacity solar pumps with pump placed outside water body for applications like irrigation, drinking water etc. Ideal for areas with good water table requiring small water quantities.
2. AC Submersible Solar Pumps:
Submersible pumps with advanced VFD controllers suitable for high discharge volumes and lifting water from greater depths below 80 meters. Used extensively in irrigation and drinking applications.
3. Solar Pump with Grid Backup:
Has inbuilt provision for connection to grid power supply as a backup. Ensures continuous water discharge even on cloudy days or when sunlight is limited.
4. Floating Solar Pumps:
Unique pumps specifically designed for floating on water bodies like reservoirs and lakes to pump large volumes of water for irrigation. Saves precious land resources too.
5. Solar Pump Sizing:
Proper sizing of solar pump capacity as per water usage, yield per day required, depth of water etc. is must for optimal performance. Waaree solar experts provide free pump sizing consultation.
6. Remote Monitoring:
Advanced solar pumps come integrated with remote monitoring solution. It enables real-time tracking of 20+ parameters through cloud-based dashboards for timely alerts and reducing downtime.
7. Product Certification:
Always opt for solar pumps that meet the latest BIS and MNRE specifications. Check for valid test reports from authorized test centers. Waaree pumps comply with all Indian regulatory standards.
Partner with Waaree for your solar pumping needs
We have covered a step-by-step process to install a solar powered water pump system either through government schemes or for your personal requirements. Waaree offers a wide range of high quality solar panels, pump sets, and complete customized solar pumping solutions. With over 30 years of experience, Waaree has installed thousands of solar water pumping projects across India delivering clean drinking water, meeting irrigation needs and supporting rural livelihoods. Contact us today and visit our website waamotors.com to make the switch to reliable and cost-effective solar water pumps!