A solar water pump is a water pumping system with sunlight as a source of energy. It functions exactly like a conventional electric pump, with the exception that solar energy is used in place of fossil fuel or electricity. It’s a system that comprises of solar photovoltaic panels, electronic controller, a motor pump set, and in some cases, other items like batteries, etc.

There are several types, but primarily, there are four types

1. Solar water pumps
2. Submersible pumps; surface pumps
3. Direct current (DC) pumps
4. Alternate current (AC) pumps

Among DC and AC, DC pumps have higher efficiency, and they don’t require an inverter for operation. However, their acquisition and maintenance costs are very high. 

Solar water pumps have various applications in the commercial, residential, and agriculture sectors. It may be used for extracting water from ponds, rivers, bore wells, or other sources of water, which is then used to meet the water requirements for irrigation, community water supply, or livestock. They can also be used for draining water from flooded areas or basements, filling a water storage tank, swimming pool, or for getting rid of excess water to reduce the downtime from a large rain event.

• Zero Fuel Cost
• Low Electricity Bill
• Environment-friendly
• Low Operating Cost
• Renewable Energy Source
• Less Labor &  maintenance
• High Savings

Solar water pump sets work like normal water pumps with the only exception of sunlight that is used as a source of energy, unlike electricity. When sunlight strikes the solar panels, it produces direct current (DC), which then runs the motor for water supply. When the motor requires an AC supply, an inverter is used to convert DC to AC.

In general, a 2 HP pump can irrigate a land of 2 acres in size and a 7.5 HP pump can supply enough water for a land of 10 acres. This data is not yet validated and is subjected to variation according to ground water level and the type of requirement you have.

The advantages of solar water pumps over conventional electric pumps are as follows:

• A solar water pump does not need any fuel or electricity to run. After installation, there is no recurring cost of fuel or electricity.
• Easy installation in remote areas where electricity and fuel are unavailable or difficult to procure.
• Low maintenance costs due to having fewer moving parts than a conventional pump and, thus, fewer chances of abrasion.
• Unaffected by frequent power cuts, low voltage or fluctuation, motor burning or the single phase problem.
• Easy to operate.

You should choose a pump based on the water source and groundwater level. In the case of a water level less than 10 meters, a surface pump is used. And also when there is an open well or pond then also surface pump is used. However, If it is a deep borewell with a water table more than 10-15 meters then you should go with a submersible pump. 

Based on the classification, the following types of water pump sets are available:

• Surface water pump set
• Submersible water pump set
• Any other type of motor pump recognized by Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Yes, there is a set-criteria for selecting the location of both solar panels and the pump. In the case of pumps, they should be located near the field for irrigation and within the vicinity of solar panels. And also, you need to take care of the water table while placing the pump. If there are multiple water sources with varying water table then source with highest water table should be connected to the pump.

And, in the case of solar panels, they should be installed in the area where there is no shade, no dust or dirt, low events of bird falling, even surface, and uninterrupted tracking movement (the orientation of solar panels in the direction where there is enough solar radiation). And also panels should be kept close to water source and pump

No, solar radiation reaches the earth with very little intensity owing to cloudy, rainy, or foggy weather. Hence, the production of solar power decreases, which ultimately impacts the operability of solar water pumps.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has initiated a five-year program, Solar Pumping Program for Irrigation and Drinking Water, in 2014-15 with an initial financial support of Rs 400 crores for the installation of 10 lakh solar water pumping systems in the country for irrigation and drinking water needs. The scheme is being implemented through the state governments that can either carry out solar pumping projects or offer finances through NABARD, commercial banks and other agencies to the farmers in order to encourage solar water pumping.  

Nowadays, many states are offering subsidies to promote the use of solar water pumps. In its budget 2017-18, the Andhra government has announced the distribution of solar pump sets to farmers at subsidized prices. Also, the Haryana government has proposed to offer 90 percent subsidy to encourage solar water pumps among farmers. 

There is a reason we state that solar pumps are cheaper in the long run. They require little to no maintenance when compared to their diesel and even electric counterparts. They have a longer life expectancy (they can still produce electricity for 25 years). The most maintenance needed on a panel is the cleaning of the solar panels. Cleaning allows the panels to operate efficiently as dust and dirt can affect their efficiency.  

No. All of our solar pump systems are designed to operate with direct solar. However, they can be operated via batteries if needed for on-demand use.

Our solar pumps are designed for neutral pH. Higher and lower values could possibly corrode components. 

Yes they can! Solartive solar pumps can supply depending on lift. However, if more water and pressure is required we have the system to fit most needs. Contact us today if you have questions about which solar pump is right for you.

Absolutely, Solartive has sold many systems for similar applications. Just be sure your pond or creek can keep up with your desired water demand. Freezing issues may arise if improperly installed. We also advise you to encase the solar pump in a filtration box or float the pump to ensure it is not pumping debris from the bottom of the water source. This can cause your pump to wear down fast and lead to repairs. For more information on this type of application please contact us.

No! solar water pump cannot be used for salt water application. Please let us know beforehand that you will be using it in a salt water application.

We love pumping water to ponds. Solartive has sized many systems for fishing ponds, frac ponds, and newly built ponds for homes, farms, oilfield use, and more. To get started contact one of our system specialists.

Yes, we advise you to relocate you solar panels uphill so they are in direct sunlight. We provide you with additional lengths, allowing you to purchase up to several hundred feet.