Optimal Sizing of Photovoltaic Irrigation Water Pumping System in Samara

Abstract

Water pumping from wells and rivers for irrigation is a well establishedprocedure on many farms in Iraq and is practical on various levels around the world.Typical irrigation systems consume a great amount of conventional energy throughthe use of electric motors and generators powered by fuel.The overall objective of this research was to determine the feasibility of usingphotovoltaic (PV) modules to power a water pump for a small-scale irrigation systemin the North-West of Iraq (Samara). The study involved field observations,simulations of global solar radiation and PV electrical output.Field observations involved an installation of 24-monocrystaline silicon PVmodules as shown in figure (1). This system was installed to give maximum powerequal to (1960 watt) with maximum open circuit voltage (Voc = 175 volts) andmaximum short circuit ( Isc= 14 Amp ). This module was connected to the pump via acharge controller and AC inverter. The parameters monitored were voltage, current,back-of-panel temperature, pressure, and flow. These observed parameters were usedto determine PV electrical output and volume of water pumped. Site latitude,elevation, and panel tilt were applied to the solar radiation and PV electrical outputmodels. PV electrical output and volume of water pumped were monitored betweenJanuary 2000 and December 2000. As expected, an increase in power causes anincrease in the volume of water pumped.