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Application of photovoltaic array for pumping water as an alternative to diesel engines in Jordan Badia, Tall Hassan station: Case study
Abstract
The availability of water and the ability to access are the key questions arising in developing countries including Jordan, which is the fourth poorest country in the world regarding water resources. Renewable energy, especially solar energy, can potentially play a role in the supply of safe water in Jordan Badia, where nearly 80% of the total area of Jordan is Badia, and in most cases these deep wells are far away from the national grid electricity, and in some of these areas there is an important quantity of groundwater at shallow depths. This paper introduces and compares the cost-effectiveness and the Present Value Cost (PVC) for the economic evaluation of power supply for pumping systems in remote areas in Northern Badia of Jordan by two different energy supply systems, photovoltaic systems and diesel engines.Many variables are taken into account such as the fuel prices, and the required investments. The comparison is made for a wide range of variable values, total head, tank capacity, photovoltaic array peak power and pumping requirements. A case study in Tall Hassan station is conducted to analyze the two power supply pumping systems, which are designed to supply drinking water.The results obtained are useful for choosing the best alternative for the power supply of pumping systems in wells in Northern Badia of Jordan.
... For the definition of the capacity required, different factors must be considere as the average temperature of the area, the daily hours of solar irradiance, the relat between the output power of the PV system in operating conditions, and its outpu maximum power point, as well as the daily efficiency of the subsystem [30,47]. T rameters considered are listed below. ...
... For the definition of the capacity required, different factors must be considered, such as the average temperature of the area, the daily hours of solar irradiance, the relationship between the output power of the PV system in operating conditions, and its output at the maximum power point, as well as the daily efficiency of the subsystem [30,47]. The parameters considered are listed below. ...
... According to [30,47], the required area of the PV solar pump (A PV ) array depends on the properties of the well, such as the height of the well (h); the volume (V), defined as the daily amount of water required; water density (ρ); gravity (g); and the daily solar radiation during the most unfavorable times of the year, in this case December or January (G T ), on the surface of the PV array expressed in kWh/m 2 ; (η PV ) being the efficiency of the PV array at operating conditions and (η s ) the subsystem efficiency: ...
Groundwater pumping systems using photovoltaic (PV) energy are increasingly being implemented around the world and, to a greater extent, in rural and electrically isolated areas. Over time, the cost of these systems has decreased, providing greater accessibility to freshwater in areas far from urban centers and power grids. This paper proposes a novel sustainability analysis of the groundwater pumping systems in Tenerife Island as an example of a medium-size isolated system, analyzing the current status and the business-as-usual projection to 2030, considering the water reservoirs available and the final use of water. The 2030 projection focused on the PV deployment, evaluation of the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), and the availability of the groundwater resource. HOMER software was used to analyze the LCOE, and ArcGIS software was used for the visual modeling of water resources. As a result, the average LCOE for a purely PV installation supplying electricity to a pumping system in Tenerife is 0.2430 €/kWh, but the location and characteristic of each pumping system directly affect the performance and costs, mostly due to the solar availability.
... In general, water pumping in remote areas is mainly limited to the use of diesel generators, which is a major problem due to its disadvantages such as maintenance problems, pollution and high operating cost [22]. However, in the past decade, solarpowered irrigation systems have been rapidly expanding, have become more accessible and are expected to provide an appropriate solution to water scarcity for drinking water, agriculture irrigation and livestock needs on farms and in remote areas [23,24]. The rapid development of PV irrigation system is due to the lower cost of PV panel technology, the lower price of lithium-ion batteries and the rapid commercialization of the products [23]. ...
... The rapid development of PV irrigation system is due to the lower cost of PV panel technology, the lower price of lithium-ion batteries and the rapid commercialization of the products [23]. On the other hand, PV-powered water pumping solutions have many advantages, including robustness, operational safety, significantly lower life-cycle costs, longer system life and no negative environmental impact (non-polluting and quiet) [24,25]. ...
... This system can be used in small rural farms in sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, Al-Smairan [24] developed the application of two systems to supply power to a water pump in a remote area of Jordan Badia. This application includes the realization of stand-alone photovoltaic and diesel generator projects. ...
Water irrigation systems (WISs) are an important factor for agricultural development and food security. However, their energy supply is affected by several problems related to the use of diesel generators, especially in remote areas. This paper describes a new methodology used to design a cost-effective and sustainable solution to provide a water irrigation system with a demand of 40 kWh/day. A combined supply side management (SSM) and load shifting (LS) strategy, which is a component of the demand side management (DSM) concept for the design and optimization of irrigation systems, was implemented. HOMER was used to select the appropriate system based on the technical, economic and environmental criteria. A general comparison between the simulated scenarios (PV/Battery, PV/Battery/Diesel, and Diesel generator) was carried out using the cost of energy (CoE), the total net present cost (TNPC), CO2 emissions and the renewable energy fraction (REF). The results show that the PV/Battery/Diesel scenario is the most optimal and attractive. This optimal system was also simulated with the load shifting strategy. Compared to the system without LS, the results show that the LS offers a 19.25%, 20% and 10.70% reduction in CoE, TNPC and net CO2 emissions, respectively, in addition to the significant savings in the electricity bill cost and REF improvement.
... Moreover, if the high costs of transportation of diesel are considered, diesel-power water-pumping systems are not cost-effective in the long term [3]. In the last fifteen years, several studies have proven that the use of solar energy as an alternative energy source for water pumping is feasible in terms of economic value and environmental benefits [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18]. ...
... PV panels are widely used as the conversion technology to supply electricity for water-pumping systems, especially in areas without electrical infrastructure [12,18]. Whilst there is a wide range of other renewable energy resources with numerous industrial technologies that can be used to tap the resources (e.g., hydropower and biomass), solar resources have proven to be the most suitable one in terms of cost-effectiveness [12] and availability, where the latter is directly associated with the water demand. ...
... PV panels are widely used as the conversion technology to supply electricity for water-pumping systems, especially in areas without electrical infrastructure [12,18]. Whilst there is a wide range of other renewable energy resources with numerous industrial technologies that can be used to tap the resources (e.g., hydropower and biomass), solar resources have proven to be the most suitable one in terms of cost-effectiveness [12] and availability, where the latter is directly associated with the water demand. Water demand peaks during the summer period, just when the solar resource availability is also relatively high. ...
This article presents a field-performance investigation on an Integrated Solar Water Supply System (SWSS) at two isolated agricultural areas in Thailand. The two case-study villages (Pongluek and Bangkloy) have experienced severe draughts in recent decades, and, therefore, water supply has become a major issue. A stand-alone 15.36 kW solar power and a 15 kW solar submersible pump were installed along with the input power generated by solar panels supported by four solar trackers. The aim is to lift water at the static head of 64 and 48 m via a piping length of 400 m for each village to be stored in 1000 and 1800 m3 reservoirs at an average of 300 and 400 m3 per day, respectively, for Pongluek and Bangkloy villages. The case study results show that the real costs of electricity generated by SWSS using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems intergraded with the solar tracking system yield better performance and are more advantageous compared with the non-tracking system. This study illustrates how system integration has been employed. System design and commercially available simulation predictions are elaborated. Construction, installation, and field tests for SWSS are discussed and highlighted. Performances of the SWSS in different weather conditions, such as sunny, cloudy, and rainy days, were analysed to make valuable suggestions for higher efficiency of the integrated solar water supply systems.
... Moreover, if the high costs of transportation of diesel are considered, diesel-power water-pumping systems are not cost-effective in the long term [3]. In the last fifteen years, several studies have proven that the use of solar energy as an alternative energy source for water pumping is feasible in terms of economic value and environmental benefits [3], [4], [13]- [18], [5]- [12]. ...
... PV panels are widely used as the conversion technology to supply electricity for water-pumping systems, especially in areas without electrical infrastructure [12], [18]. Whilst there is a wide range of other renewable energy resources with numerous industrial technologies that can be used to tap the resources (e.g. ...
... Whilst there is a wide range of other renewable energy resources with numerous industrial technologies that can be used to tap the resources (e.g. hydropower and biomass), solar resources have proven to be the most suitable one in terms cost-effectiveness [12] and availability, where the latter which is directly associated with the water demand. This is, the water demand peaks during in the summer period, just when the solar resource availability is also relatively high. ...
This article presents a field-performance investigation on an Integrated Solar Water Supply System (SWSS) at two isolated agricultural areas in Thailand. The two case-study villages (Pongluek and Bangkloy ) have experienced severe draughts in the last decades, and therefore water supply has become a major issue. A stand-alone 15.36 kW solar power and a 15 kW solar submersible pump were installed along with the input power generated by solar panels supported by four solar trackers. The aim is to lift water at the static head of 64 and 48 m via piping length of 400 metres for each village to be stored in 1,000 m3 and 1,800 m3 reservoirs at an average of 300 m3 and 400 m3 per day, respectively for Pongluek and Bangkloy villages. The case study results have shown that the real costs of electricity generated by SWSS using solar PV systems intergraded with the solar tracking system yield better performance and are more advantageous compared with the non-tracking system. This study illustrates how system integration has been employed. System design and commercially available simulation predictions are elaborated. Construction, installation, and field tests for SWSS are discussed and highlighted. Performances of the SWSS in different weather conditions such as sunny, cloudy, and rainy days were analysed to make valuable suggestions for higher efficiency of the integrated solar water supply systems.
... Electric-powered pumping systems could be used for water pumping, but like in other countries in SSA, Malawi's rural areas lack adequate grid electricity [26]. Fuel-powered systems have disadvantages such as vulnerability to oil prices, depletion of fossil fuels, pollution, noise, transportation and high maintenance costs [27]. ...
... Motorised pumps, which require electricity or diesel generators for pumping water, could enhance water accessibility by allowing for deeper boreholes. With lack of grid electricity in most of the rural areas in Malawi and disadvantages from diesel as cited by other authors such as [27,31], Malawi has relatively high insolation, making solar photovoltaic (PV) water pumping (SPWP) a possible option. Studies have shown that groundwater resources of more than 20 m depth are less susceptible to drying up and less vulnerable to contamination, and therefore might not need treatment [32][33][34]. ...
... One way to finance rural water supplies is to pay for water; however, it must be established if the people would be willing to pay, and how much. The contingency valuation method (CVM) is a popular means to determine willingness to pay (WTP) [27]. In the CVM individuals are asked hypothetical questions on how much they would be willing to pay to access a resource or goods [7]. ...
Water and energy are both major challenges in rural areas of developing countries, including in the sub-Saharan Africa Region. This study assessed water and energy needs, challenges, and costs in order to produce a body of knowledge and further explore ways in which the water-energy synergies could be utilised. A mixed-mode survey method consisting of questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, observations and focus group discussions involving participants in the rural areas of Chiradzulu District in Malawi was employed. The study findings show that water access is generally inadequate, caused by high population, low yield, disparity in the distribution of water sources, and non-functionality. Using the contingent valuation method, logistic regression showed the only predictor of willingness to pay for drinking water was income and the predictors to pay for irrigation water were occupation, age and household size. Sustainable energy access was also found lacking for cooking and basic energy services such as for lighting, mobile charging and for radios. Biomass remains the main source of cooking energy, whereas battery powered torches have replaced paraffin for lighting. Overall, the household survey results imply that there is need for more sustainable water and energy provision. To address both challenges, the study recommends solar PV water pumping systems which can be designed in such a way that they can be simultaneously used for providing basic energy services. Further research is needed to address cooking energy choices.
... The solar panel needs no maintenance except for the constant cleaning of the panels to ensure maximum capture of sunlight. Studies employing various methods and models have proven solar PV's effectiveness in pumping water for irrigation and other purposes [23,24,25]. However, these papers also highlight that the most common disadvantage of solar irrigation is its high initial investment cost. ...
... With a 110% return on investment, it suggests that while the initial cost may be high for small-scale farmers at PHP 110,000 per hectare, this amount will be covered and doubled in the effective lifetime of the solar PV system. This supports previous studies that, considering the full life cycle of an irrigation system, solar PV-powered systems are economically viable and profitable alternatives over diesel-powered systems [23,31,32]. Additionally, decreasing prices for PV panels due to higher demand and technology learning and the increasing and stochastic diesel prices [30,33] may further improve the cost-effectiveness of solar PV irrigation systems. ...
Solar irrigation systems are sustainable practices that can improve the well-being of local communities and enhance the resilience of agriculture to climate change while reducing environmental impacts. Due to its high investment cost, small-scale farmers are inclined to use traditional fossil-based irrigation systems that can harm humans and the environment. This study aims to analyze the environmental impacts, economic feasibility, and social acceptability of shifting agricultural practices from diesel-fueled to solar irrigation systems. Taking the perspective of small-scale farmers from Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, results found that solar irrigation system has a higher initial investment but lower maintenance and operational costs. These resulted in an attractive economic feasibility of the project with Php 19,693 of fuel cost savings per hectare per year, a project net present value of Php 10,214 per hectare, a payback period of 8.27 years, and returns on investment at 110%. Additionally, shifting to a solar irrigation system significantly reduces the greenhouse gas emissions from diesel at 199.78 CO2 eq/ha/yr, and avoids air pollutant emissions at 14.91 g/ha/yr particulate matter, 2.98 g/ha/yr nitrogen oxides,193.82 g/ha/yr sulfur oxides, and 149.09 g/ha/yr carbon monoxide. Despite the lack of in-depth environmental awareness, small-scale farmers are interested in investing in solar irrigation systems with 68% social acceptability. Results provide bases for recommendations on promoting more human ecologically and sustainable agriculture irrigation systems in the Philippines and other developing countries.
... Moreover, they play a vital role in reducing the consumption of conventional energy sources and their environmental impact for water pumping applications [5]. Examples of different PV water pumping systems are provided in various studies, mainly as an alternative to traditional diesel pumps [6]. Ouoba et al. describe the sizing and optimizing of PVWP solutions applied in the tertiary sector at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Mohammedia (Morocco) [7]. ...
... Random Index (RI) for matrix orders(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15) [51]. ...
Herein, optimal groundwater pumping solutions based on a variety of energy resources and water storage options are estimated and classified. Each energy source and water storage option is first characterized considering energy, economic, and environmental criteria. A multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) process based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is subsequently applied to identify and classify the optimal groundwater pumping solutions under such a multidimensional framework. An aquifer located in the southeast of Spain is analyzed in a case study to assess the proposed optimal MCDM-based approach. Conventional diesel-based equipment, solar PV power plants, and direct grid connection, as well as three water storage systems––direct pumping, seasonal storage, and annual storage––are identified as potential energy sources and water storage options, respectively. Characterization and visualization of these energy and water storage systems, as well as prioritized option results, are also discussed herein.
... Moreover, they play a vital role in reducing the consumption of conventional energy sources and their environmental impact for water pumping applications [5]. Examples of different PV water pumping systems are provided in various studies, mainly as an alternative to traditional diesel pumps [6]. Ouoba et al. describe the sizing and optimizing of PVWP solutions applied in the tertiary sector at the Faculty of Science and Technology of Mohammedia (Morocco) [7]. ...
... Random Index (RI) for matrix orders(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)(13)(14)(15) [51]. ...
Herein, optimal groundwater pumping solutions based on a variety of energy resources and water storage options areestimated and classified. Each energy source and water storage option is first characterized considering energy, economic, and environmental criteria. A multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) process based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is subsequently applied to identify and classify the optimal groundwater pumping solutions under such a multidimensional framework. An aquifer located in the southeast of Spain is analyzed in a case study to assess the proposed optimal MCDM-based approach. Conventional diesel-based equipment, solar PV power plants, and direct grid connection, as well as three water storage systems—direct pumping, seasonal storage, and annual storage—are identified as potential energy sources and water storage options, respectively. Characterization and visualization of these energy and water storage systems, as well as prioritized option results, are also discussed herein.
... Al-Smairan [62] conducted a case study analyzing the Tall Hassan station (Fig. 6.7A) located in Jordan and compared two alternative power sources, common diesel engines and PV systems. In their study, the station was primarily employed as the source of drinking water for domestic use and watering purposes with daily consumption of 45 m 3 / day. ...
... . 6.7 (A) PV-powered water pumping system in Tall Hassan station, North Badia, Jordan[62], and (B) The NSP PV-powered solar water pump[63]. ...
With the rapidly increasing trend of worldwide population growth that is estimated to reach more than 9 billion by 2050, the strain on the agriculture sector has been substantially increased. At the same time, the issues of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the depletion of fossil fuels are putting an end to conventional agricultural practices. With the infiltration of renewable technologies, the agriculture sector aims to feed the growing population in a more sustainable manner. Considering all the renewable energy sources, solar energy is among the most adaptable ones with farm applications. Over the years, photovoltaic (PV) technology has been employed to supply the required power for various agricultural applications, including water pumping and irrigation, saltwater desalination, crop drying, greenhouse cultivation, etc. Additionally, a new technology known as agrophotovoltaic (APV) has been recently implemented in several farm lands worldwide for the coproduction of PV power and food. Currently, several dairy farms are using PV systems to fulfill the electric demands of their equipment and facilities, including crop protection systems. The implementation of solar PV technologies reduces fuel consumption, allowing for the development of more sustainable and flexible technologies. Advancements in PV-powered agricultural techniques would be highly beneficial, particularly for countries whose economy heavily relies on this sector.
... To face these social, economic, and environmental issues, photovoltaic systems adapted to the climatic characteristics of the region are an economic, reliable, and eco-friendly alternative [4,5]. For example, these systems can contribute to the expansion of the electrical power grid in the distant regions [6], which would allow the development of different economic activities, such as agricultural irrigation or cattle raising [7], at lower costs [8].The use of photovoltaic energy brings with it economic, social, and environmental benefits, providing the population with access to telecommunication systems in rural zones [9], and thus improving the business opportunities and prospects that can contribute to the development of the region. On the other hand, the principal disadvantage of the use of photovoltaic energies is the initial investment cost, which is, however, recoverable over time [10]. ...
... Due to the fact that the system functions only in DC, the efficiency results are superior to those observed in systems with DC/ AC inversion [1,7,8,10,11,23]. However, the main advantage of these systems is the enhanced exploitation of solar energy. ...
In the present experimental study, a photovoltaic (PV)-powered system in continuous current (4 kW) for the pumping of water in an isolated, rural agricultural zone in Arequipa - Peru was analyzed. A meteorological station was installed in the studied zone, measuring solar radiation, temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed. The electrical and hydraulic parameters of the solar-pumping system (i.e., electric current, voltage, mass flow, and hydraulic pressure) were measured in order to evaluate the efficiency of the energy transformation processes. The results indicate that, during the year of 2017, the PV pumping system in direct current (DC) functions from 07 h 30 min to 15 h 30 min, during an average of 8 h a day. The PV array, hydraulic, and global efficiencies were evaluated. This allows for the interpretation of efficiency independent of solar irradiance. The efficiency of the PV array and global efficiency remained constant (11.5% f and 8.5%, respectively). The functioning interval of the PV array ranges from 880 W up to 3400 W, making evident the versatility of the system of generation and consumption in DC, which is able to function since solar irradiance is at least 200 W/m2, corresponding to 880 W of PV array power, 27 m of total dynamic head (TDH) and 2 kg/s of mass flow, and 70% hydraulic efficiency. With greater mass flows (6.3 kg/s), the PV array power was 3256 W with a hydraulic efficiency of 55%, a TDH of 30 m, and a peak solar irradiance of 1190 W/m2. When the whole system functions in DC, the efficiencies are superior to those of systems, which operate with DC/alternating current (AC) current inverters.
... Table 5 presents a comparative analysis of the energy costs within the modelled system. The proposed system cost from the current study is found to be within an acceptable range when compared to the costs of PV systems cited in various references (Bakelli et al., 2011;Al-Badi et al., 2011;Al-Smairan, 2012;Al-Badi et al., 2012;Kazem et al., 2013;Salam et al., 2013;Garcia et al., 2022;Habib et al., 2023). Despite variations in location, weather data, system dimensions and equipment costs along with their impact on energy costs, the information in Table 5 provides valuable insights into the feasibility of the proposed system. ...
This study presents and assesses the novelty of a cutting‐edge solar‐powered automated irrigation system that incorporates a single‐axis solar tracker. The research entails the meticulous development of a prototype, followed by comprehensive experimental scrutiny spanning 3 days, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In a unique approach, we benchmark the findings against previous research endeavours, highlighting the transformative potential of our innovative design.
Our innovative system harnesses a singular‐axis solar tracking mechanism alongside moisture sensors and a water pump relay module, resulting in the creation of an autonomous irrigation system perpetually powered by solar energy. The results are noteworthy, showcasing the capability of a solar panel equipped with single‐axis tracking to significantly boost photovoltaic output power. This configuration attains a remarkable 65% increase in total output power and a substantial improvement over the modest 52%–53% performance of fixed solar panels. This substantial divergence translates to a noteworthy 12%–13% difference in efficacy, underscoring the pioneering nature of our research.
The zenith of power output, ranging between 3.16 and 3.68 W, transpires from noon to 2:00 PM, further illustrating the system's viability. The integrated water pump exhibits commendable efficiency, attaining levels as high as 75%. This revelation underscores the transformative potential of automated irrigation systems endowed with single‐axis solar tracking technology, auguring amplified system performance and heralding a new era of sustainable agricultural practices.
... Several scholars have undertaken performance comparisons between solar photovoltaic-powered and conventionally electrically powered water pumping systems, such as grid and diesel generators, in rural contexts. Their aim has been to minimize water pumping costs while conserving energy [13][14][15][16][17][18][19]. ...
This study conducts a thorough examination of the technical and economic aspects of solar water pumping systems for agricultural use in six distinct regions of Saudi Arabia: Qassim, Al Ahsa, Al Kharj, Al Jouf, Hail, and Wadi Aldoaser. The technical assessment delves into crucial factors, including solar radiation levels, local climate conditions, pump system types, groundwater levels, and daily water demand. It identifies certain energy output limitations and proposes three potential solutions. The economic feasibility has been evaluated using the life cycle costing method, considering local market prices. The economic analysis relies on key financial indicators, including the Levelized Cost of Produced Water, the Levelized Cost of generated Energy, and the Payback Period. We explore these analyses in the context of three suggested solutions, encompassing both standalone and grid-connected modes of operation. Among these solutions, the second option, involving tilt angle control, emerges as the most economically favorable choice. It exhibits the lowest average values for both the Levelized Cost of Water and the Levelized Cost of Energy. Additionally, this option features the shortest payback period across all analyzed wells, regardless of the operational mode. Based on the comprehensive nature of our analyses, we highly recommend the second option as the preferred solution for solar water pumping applications in Saudi Arabian agriculture.
... A comparative study for cost-effectiveness between diesel engines and solar systems for pumping water in remote areas in Nothern Badia of Jordan is presented by Mohammad Al-Smairan; the study has considered different variables such as initial investment and prices of fuels. The obtained results are used to select the optimum alternative power source to operate the water pumping system [11]. The performance of a solar PV system for water pumping in four different locations in Tunisia was presented by Belgacem; the evaluation is based asynchronous motor coupled to a centrifugal pump. ...
This paper presents a techno-economic investigation for utilizing photovoltaic solar energy in water pumping applications for the irrigation of Palm trees in the Qassim region in Saudi Arabia. The Analysis has been done by applying four technical indicators and three economic indicators on a real farm of palm trees. The investigation took into account the varied water demand for palm trees over the years, meteorological data of the region, the characteristics of the borehole, and the local market prices of PV system components. The investigation has been done using two options of PV systems: grid-connected system and standalone system. The results showed the superiority of the grid-connected system in spite of the unfair price of energy exchange with the utility grid. The results achieved are the Levelled cost of energy, which is in the range from 0.013 to 0.019 $/kWh. The standardized cost of produced water is in the range from 0.011 to 0.013 $/m3, and the simple payback time is in the range from 9.65 to 12.22 years. The results are considered to encourage farmers in the region to convert to solar energy utilization.
... wherein: 0.3 represents the relative cost for the project and implementation, equivalent to 30% of the acquisition cost [35]; Caq is the acquisition cost of the PV kit per kWp (BRL/kWp); P is the peak power of the PV panels (kWp); 0.02 is the relative cost for operation and maintenance of a photovoltaic system, which is 2% of the investment cost per year [36]. The authors conducted a market survey to obtain the acquisition cost, resulting in a Caq of 4378.97 ...
Irrigation plays a vital role in sustaining agricultural production during periods of low rainfall. While ensuring increased productivity and economic profitability, irrigation is associated with high electrical energy consumption. In 2018, Brazilian Decree 9642 eliminated discounts for rural consumers, established in 2013. Leveraging renewable energy sources for irrigation can mitigate nonrenewable energy dependence and reduce the electricity costs for irrigators. This study aimed to nationally compare the economic viability of on-grid photovoltaic systems as an alternative to conventional grid energy for agricultural irrigation, both pre- and post-Brazilian Decree 9642. We conducted a comprehensive life cycle cost (LCC) analysis for both systems before and after discount termination, facilitating more informed economic decisions. The LCC of the conventional grid energy increased by over 40% after the Decree, whereas the photovoltaic system saw a modest increase of 12%. The solar system’s 28% cost advantage over the conventional grid post-Decree underscores its resilience to regulatory changes. The photovoltaic system demonstrated viability when its LCC was equal to or lower than the comparator system’s LCC. Notably, the economic viability of the photovoltaic system extended across all geographic regions for the grid-connected system. This study highlights the competitive pricing, versatility, and economic impact of photovoltaic systems in the context of changes in Brazilian tariff legislation.
... The panels output drops during the morning, cloudy, and sunset periods. The total power needed to operate the pump Multiply by 1.25 determines the size of the PV panels 29 . Solar panel's power = 1.25 × 10 hp = 12.5 hp = 12.5 hp × 745.7 W = 9321 W. Panels number = 9321/260≃36 panels. ...
The operation and effectiveness of a solar-powered underground water pumping system are affected by many environmental and technical factors. The impact of these factors must be investigated to be considered when developing these systems and to ensure their dependability. This study evaluated the dependability and performance of photovoltaic water pumping system (PVWPS) under real operating conditions by examining the effects of solar irradiance, panels’ temperature, and components' efficiency. From December 2020 to June 2021, experiments were conducted on a 10 hp PVWPS located in Bani Salamah, Al-Qanater-Giza Governorate, Egypt, at latitude 30.3° N, longitude 30.8° E, and 19 m above sea level. The irradiance values reached 755.7, 792.7, and 805.7 W/m² at 12:00 p.m. in December, March, and June, respectively. Furthermore, the irradiance has a significant impact on the pump flow rate, as the amount of pumped water during the day reached 129, 164.1, and 181.8 m³/day, respectively. The panels' temperatures rose to 35.7 °C, 39.9 °C, and 44 °C, respectively. It was observed that when the temperature rises by 1 degree Celsius, efficiency falls by 0.48%. The average efficiency of photovoltaic solar panels reached its highest value in March (13.8%) and its lowest value in December (13%).
... As the population in Jordan, as well as around the world increases, the demand for agricultural products is rising, and so agricultural technology is constantly being developed to cope with this rising demand, which, in turn, increases the need for more electrical energy. Current research shows the potential for using solar energy to overcome the conflicts in energy and water demands [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] . ...
In developing countries like Jordan, traditional energy resources are not available, so finding other sources to pump the water for irrigation and consumption is necessary. Renewable energy sources, particularly photovoltaic (PV), can play a vital role in providing potable water and irrigating crops in Jordan. Where there is a large amount of groundwater in most areas, while the water wells are deep and far from the national electricity grid. This article compares the Present Value Cost (PVC) for the monetary estimation of energy supply for water pumping systems (WPSs) in remote areas in Ghor Al-Safi/Jordan by two different sun-energy systems, Photovoltaic thermal (PV-T), and PV systems. Several factors are considered, including energy costs and expenses of the investments. The comparison is performed for a variety of variable values, including PV system peak power, and water pumping requirements. A case study is conducted at Ghor Al-Safi/Jordan. Evaluating two energy supply WPSs, which are designed to supply irrigation water for the entire year 2020. The obtained results showed that the average monthly electricity output efficiency for "PV and PV-T" was 12.7% and 10.86%, respectively. However, the total efficiency of the "PV-T" ranged from 41.3% to 55% which is higher than the PV system. The result concluded that the application of PV-T system in Jordan is promising for solving energy demand.
... Solar powered water pumping systems are particularly ideal for remote locations where there is no electricity or national transmission lines [15]. It consists of photovoltaic modules, charge controller, battery, electric motor, pump and well or tank etc. [16]. ...
Performance of solar photovoltaic water pumping units relies on available solar radiations of the area, geographical conditions and system configurations. This study was conducted to analyze the influence of solar radiation, motor speed and water head on water discharge of a solar water pumping systems (SWPS). For that, a SWPS was installed, configured and its performance was examined at Sadiqabad Colony, Nawabshah for two consecutive months from 12:00 to 13:00 hours. Light meter, Model- HDS 2302.0, Delta OHM was used for measurement of global solar radiation, PROVA-RM 1000 tachometer for motor pump speed and stopwatch for recording of elapsed time for filling up of 30 liters capacity water can. Results revealed that the average minimum solar radiations were 776 W/m2 at 12:00 hours in the month of May and maximum 902 W/m2 at 13:00 hours in the month of June during experimental work. The maximum average motor speed and flow rate were noted at L1 and minimum at L4, whereas, the maximum time taken by the solar water pumping system for filling up of water can at L4 and minimum at L1. The time taken to provide one liter of water was found inversely proportional with motor speed and directly with the water head.
... Other examples include controlling nonpoint source pollution, controlling arsenic, reclaiming wastewater, and protecting river water quality. Still others encourage photovoltaic arrays for water pumping, of which several of these cost effectiveness analyses have been published (Al-Smairan, 2012;Bouraoui and Grizzetti, 2014;Chen et al., 2003;Crossman and Bryan, 2009;Ferrer et al., 2012;Kasprzyk et al., 2013;Kobya et al., 2020;McConnachie et al., 2012;Olmstead, 2010;Sharpley et al., 2001;Siyal et al., 2018;Stec and Kordana, 2015;Tam et al., 2010;Taylor et al., 2016;Yuan et al., 2002). ...
Allocation of water over its six dimensions of quantity, quality, timing, location, price, and cost remains an ongoing challenge facing water resource planning worldwide. This challenge is magnified with growing evidence of climate change and related water supply stressors. This stress will challenge food, energy, and water systems as climate adaptation policy measures see continued debate. Despite numerous achievements made many by previous works, few attempts have scanned the literature on economic optimization analysis for water resources planning to discover affordable climate adaptation measures. This paper aims to fill that gap by reviewing the literature on water resource optimization analysis at the basin scale to guide discovery of affordable climate adaptation measures. It does so by posing the question “What principles, practices, and recent developments are available to guide discovery of policy measures to improve water resource system adaptions to growing evidence of climate water stress?” It describes past achievements and identifies improvements needed for optimization analysis to inform policy debates for crafting plans to improve climate resilience. It describes an economic conceptual framework as well as identifying data needs for conducting economic optimization exercises to support river basin planning faced by the challenge of managing the six water dimensions described above. It presents an example from an ongoing issue facing water planners in the Middle East. Conclusions find considerable utility in the use of economic optimization exercises to guide climate water stressadaptation. Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
... Within the investment costs, the PV modules cost and the water tank cost were investigated. In [16], increasing the PV modules cost by 50% increases the overall PVWPS cost by 40%. Differently, in [17], increasing the PV modules cost by 50% increases the water cost by 12%. ...
A sensitivity analysis is carried out on the parameters
of a photovoltaic water pumping system (PVWPS) for domestic
water supply in rural areas. The results show that the photovoltaic
modules peak power, the motor-pump efficiency, and the water tank
volume strongly influence the system performance. This highlights
that these parameters constitute judicious optimization variables.
Besides, the cost of the motor-pump, the cost of the water tank, and
the lifetime of the PVWPS have the largest impact on the system
cost. These six parameters are therefore of primary importance
for the technoeconomic optimal sizing of the system. Finally, it is
shown that the hydraulic losses play a minor role and that it is not
necessary to consider the evolution of the ambient temperature
when modeling PVWPS for domestic water supply. This study
can be useful to nongovernmental organizations, companies, and
governments which install PVWPS for domestic water access. It can
help them to determine the accuracy at which a given parameter
has to be known to correctly model or size these systems. Besides,
it can allow them to evaluate the robustness of PVWPS sizing
to parameters variation with time and may guide their choice of
components.
... The hydraulic power needed for water pumping in a desalination system is a function of different characteristics that must be defined for system design. Therefore, hydraulic sizing can be estimated using the following equation [84]; FIG. 8.11 Integration of a solar still with a PV system to drive a water pump [83]. ...
Water scarcity is a serious problem in several regions, especially in isolated communities located in desert or arid areas of the world. One of the most promising solutions to address this problem is desalination. Solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation technology has demonstrated that it can be an ideal and clean alternative to fossil fuels, especially in remote and isolated areas where there is no accessibility to power grids, or such accessibility is difficult. The integration of desalination plants with solar PV systems for water production is nearly competitive because of both the decreasing trend of PV prices and the increasing trend of fossil fuel prices over recent years. The generated electricity by PV systems integrated with desalination plants can be utilized to drive electromechanical devices, including pumps and fans, electric heaters, etc., and in a larger range, any direct-current (DC) apparatus. The most mature conventional desalination technologies for integration with solar PV systems are reverse osmosis (RO) and electrodialysis (ED). Due to operating RO based on alternative current (AC), a DC/AC inverter is required while ED systems operate based on DC current. Membrane distillation is another desalination technology that requires thermal power to operate, but PV modules can also be integrated to supply the required electricity for other attached equipment. In addition, the integration of PV modules with solar stills, which are the most favorable alternatives in remote areas for supplying freshwater, has great potential to overcome some of the problems regarding conventional distillation systems. In all mentioned PV-powered desalination systems, energy storage or an electricity back-up system is critical to guarantee sustained operation. The main barrier for worldwide deployment of PV-powered desalination systems is the high investment costs, resulting in high produced water costs. However, there is huge potential for further enhancement of performance, energy savings, and cost reductions.
... Water pumping systems are usually installed in remote locations where the reliability of the system is one of the most important factors in choosing a system. As the photovoltaic water pumping systems can be more cost effective than diesel engines to energize pumping systems in Jordan Badia [27], the wind energy pumping systems is more reliable than diesel ones. Also, even if the price of the photovoltaic modules increases; the prices of the windmills technology decreased yearly. ...
Wind energy is that clean, green, available and one of the most economical renewable energy source. Wind driven water pumping systems-windmills-are some of the older machines. Long time ago, windmills have been developed by many cultures to lift water for livestock, land drainage, irrigation and domestic supplies. As found from other wind projects and studies, the most economical and useful application that can be installed in the Jordanian arid regions is the wind pumping system using Windmill. The Windmill is a perfect choice for our region because it doesn't need high wind speed and the wind torque can be achieved by using large rotors. The windmill converts kinetic energy in wind into mechanical energy and then into hydraulic energy into the pump. The 24 blade classic windmills are the most common type of windmills which it is the one that been chosen for the present study. Achieving the goal of this study could be done by the careful design of the rotor, transmission system and the pump. A good pump design will raise the system efficiency. A design is made and all calculations showed a very good pumping output. Then the model is manufactured in the faculty of engineering workshop from local materials. It is designed to be used in a wind speed of about 3.5 m/s at 8 m tower elevation. The goal is to pump 15 m3/day of water to cover the student services building needs. The test after installation showed that the pumping flow rate of 0.2 L/sec has been achieved; this result shows that the designed and manufactured wind pumping system can pump more than the record which allows storage of water.
... System design parameters include the ratio of the system size to its average production [7], the ratio of the water tank volume to the need for water [6], the loss of power supply probability [6] and the minimum water level in the borehole allowed [8]. Cost parameters include investment cost (photovoltaic modules [8,9,10,11] and forage [8]), operational cost [11], and discount and interest rates [12]. ...
Recently we have developed a model of photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS) for domestic water access in poor rural areas. In this article, we perform a sensitivity analysis over the 14 parameters of this model. We study how the variation of the parameters value influences the model output and the optimal sizing obtained from the model, for both the dry and the wet season. Results indicate that the peak power of the photovoltaic modules, the efficiency of the motor-pump and the tank volume have the highest impact on the model output. Besides, the parameters which significantly influence the optimal sizing are the position of the water entry in the tank, the position of the stop level of the float switch, the distance between the stop and restart levels of the float switch, the height between the floor and the bottom of the tank, and the static water level in the borehole. Finally, the thermal parameters of the PV modules and the hydraulic losses have a small impact on the model output and on the optimal sizing. This study can be useful to companies, governments and non-governmental organizations which install PVWPS for domestic water access. It can help them to determine the accuracy at which a given parameter has to be known to correctly model or size these systems. It can also allow them to evaluate the robustness of PVWPS sizing to parameters variation with time. Finally, it may guide the choice of components made by PVWPS installers.
... The operational and maintenance cost of the conventional water pumping system is considerably higher compared to the SPV based water pumping system. However, the initial cost of SPVWPS cost is high even then, many studies established the cost-effectiveness and viability of SPVWPS (Al-Smairan, 2012;Foster and Cota, 2014;Li et al., 2017). The GoI has created favourable policies and incentives such as subsidies to promote the use of solar based water pump, which resulted in rapid increase in demand and the decrease in the resultant cost for the farmer. ...
The escalated targets for Solar Photovoltaic water pumping system (SPVWPS) installations in many Asian countries resulted in a huge demand for testing and certification of SPV pump samples. Test laboratories involved in testing and certifications are developing a generalized radiation and temperature profiles to cover various climatic conditions such as hot and dry, hot and humid, composite, cold and cloudy. The present paper addresses the challenges in the testing of a SPVWPS, through a step by step approach and devises solar radiation and temperature profile. Three types of testing profiles are designed to simulate “worst to worst”, “best to best” and “composite” conditions, so that evaluation of the sample can cover all the possibilities of pumping operation for the entire year. One of these three proposed testing profiles, the composite profile, reduces the total time of execution for testing of a sample, without comprising of any attributes of the testing method. Further, the developed composite radiation profile covers the large geographical area of the India and also other Asian countries and yet impart all realistic environmental conditions. The developed method of testing takes into consideration of the effects of individual components such as PV array, solar pump controller and motor pump set individually and collectively. The method also brings out superiorities and shortcomings in these components under the actual field conditions. All relevant experiment results are produced to verify the proposed testing
methods.
... The PV water pumping proposed includes 10 solar PV panels (75 W/20 V), a centrifugal pump, a controller, and a storage tank. The daily hydraulic energy needed is estimated as follows [18]: ...
Greenhouse cultivation is an essential activity for the development of the agricultural sector, and most of the energy consumption is in the agricultural industry. The increase in fossil fuels cost and their negative effects on the environment, limit the use of heating/cooling and irrigation applications.
Renewable energy is an alternative solution for water pumping and irrigation of isolated and arid regions. This article analyzes the heating/cooling and irrigation requirements of a pilot greenhouse and provides two solutions by combining thermal energy storage with phase change material as well as photovoltaic systems for cooling and irrigation.
Results have shown that monthly heating and cooling demands were at 2.25 kW and 2 kW, respectively. Monthly water consumption varies between 3.5 m³ and 38 m³ for the three sample products such as tomato, muskmelon, and watermelon. The technologies proposed can fully satisfy these heating/cooling and water requirements.
Furthermore, an economic analysis for this technology has been carried out in contrast to a diesel system. The results obtained indicate that the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of a photovoltaic system is acceptable when compared with the diesel system, where LCOEPV = 0.068$/kWh and LCOEDiesel = 0.230$/kWh. Taking into account that the water price for a PV system amounts to 1.48$ whereas the cost for a diesel system is at 2.68$, the former can be declared more economically feasible. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13029, 2019
This paper evaluates solar powered irrigation systems in Palestine. This practice is mainly to promote the use of these systems as currently there are only three such system in Palestine. The evaluation is done based on technical, financial, social and environmental aspects. The technical evaluation is done based on actual system's performance. Meanwhile, social impact study is conducted based on focus group discussion and questionnaire. Results show that a 1 kWp of photovoltaic panels can pump up to 1.5 m ³ of water per hour at a cost of USD 0.025 per m ³ . This pumping rate is subject to a surface distance pumping up to 1500 meters with a collecting pond depth of up to 8 meters, and system's life time of 20 years. Meanwhile, the capital cost of such a system is found to be USD 1754 per kWp. On the other hand, the conducted social impact study shows that 70% of farmers believed that the government did not encourage investment in this area. Meanwhile, 50% of farmers believed that using solar powered irrigation systems had increased their income by 10% to 30%, while 56% of farmers were able to hire new workers after using the system. Finally it is concluded that solar powered irrigation systems have low impact on environment subject to not using fertile land for installation.
In 2030, the world population will exceed 8.5 billion, increasing the challenges to satisfy basic needs for food, shelter, water, and/or energy. Irrigation plays a vital role in productive and sustainable agriculture. In the current context, it is determined not only by water availability but also by optimal management. Several authors have attempted to measure the performance of irrigation networks through various approaches in terms of technical indicators. To improve the sustainability in the pipe sizing of the pressurised irrigation networks, 25 different models were evaluated to discuss the advantages and disadvantages to consider in future methodologies to size water systems, which guarantee the network operation but contribute to improving the sustainability. They enable water managers to use them as tools to reduce a complex evaluation of the performance of a system, and focusing on better management of resources and sustainability indicators for agricultural ecosystems are clear and objective values.
The reduction of fossil fuel consumption is widely supported across various sectors. The agriculture sector presents a significant opportunity for sustainable solutions, electricity consumption is substantial for water pumping and irrigation. Solar power emerges as a promising alternative, particularly in the Middle East, renowned for its abundant solar resources. This study conducts a financial assessment integrating solar power into agricultural irrigation within the region. The proposed solar water system utilizes monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic modules to power a centrifugal pump, transferring water from 10-meter-deep wells to a 40 m3 surface tank. This system, with an initial investment cost of $25,058, was analyzed for economic feasibility in four locations: Bahtim (Egypt), Suwyban (United Arab Emirates), Ash Shibaniyah (Qatar), and Wadi Al Dawaserm (Saudi Arabia). Among these locations, the United Arab Emirate stands out for its substantial exposure to solar radiation, averaging 175 kWh/m ² /day. The study emphasizes the importance of site-specific analysis over solely relying on a nation's economic status. Simulations conducted using the PVSYST program revealed that while the system performs less effectively in the Gulf regions due to the extreme temperatures, it achieves a high performance of 67.9% in Egypt. The system proves to be quite profitable in Egypt, with a payback period of 7.8 years and a net present value of $7175.37. The successful implementation of this solution fosters collaboration between stakeholders, decision-makers, and Egyptian authorities, collectively contributing to environmental protection by transitioning agriculture away from fossil fuel reliance.
In the recent decades, the researchers have been focused on the use of photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems that provide the best performance and cooling for the photovoltaic panels. In this study, a PVT system consisting of a monocrystalline PV panel and a spiral heat exchanger was connected to an underground heat exchanger that is buried at a depth of 4 m below the surface of the earth. The procedure of the current study can be considered the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region (based on the researchers' knowledge). The study was carried out on agricultural land in Baghdad-Iraq during months of July and August-2022, which are considered the harshest weather conditions for this city. The heat exchanger consists of a copper tube with a length of 21 m and formed in the shape of 3U, and it was buried in the earth and connected with a PVT system. The results of the study showed that the site chosen to bury the heat exchanger (4 m deep) has a stable soil temperature at 22.5 °C. From various volumetric flow rates, a flow rate of 0.18 l/s was selected which is considered the highest flow rate that can show vibration in the PVT system which may harm the system. The practical measurements showed that the largest difference in the surface temperatures of standalone PV and PVT was around 20 °C in favor of the latter. The electrical efficiency of the studied PVT system also increased to outperform the standalone PV system by 127.3%. By comparing the results of the current study with studies of water-cooled PVT systems from the literature, it is clear that the proposed system is feasible and has an acceptable efficiency in such harsh weather conditions tested during the experiment.
Irrigation systems to supply water to agricultural land are essential in remote and isolated areas. However, these areas often face challenges and obstacles in obtaining energy for use in irrigation since many depend on diesel generators (DGs) to produce electricity. A farm located in a remote area in Al-Jafr, Jordan, uses a 100 kW DG to supply its need for electric energy for irrigation purposes. Its energy consumption is 500 kWh/day at $0.29/kWh. This paper designs a new hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for this farm by conducting simulations using the HOMER (Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources) software. This new system consists of solar photovoltaics (PVs), batteries, an inverter, and a 100 kW DG. The results showed a clear difference between the baseline DG-only system and the hybrid system regarding energy cost and carbon emissions. The energy price for the HRES is $0.107/kWh, and carbon dioxide emissions are reduced to 27,378 kg/yr from 184,917 kg/yr for the DG-only system. In addition, simulations and comparisons for an alternative HRES with a 60 kW DG were conducted. Based on the simulation results, the energy price was $0.091 instead of $0.19, and carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions were 15,847 kg/yr instead of 115,090 kg/yr. It was concluded that using hybrid renewable energy systems to power the irrigation of remote areas successfully reduced the energy cost, fuel consumption, emissions, and overall cost. The HOMER program makes an accurate comparison over extended periods between the four strategies (load following, cycle charging, combined dispatch, and predictive dispatch) and selects the optimal system based on the cost, emissions, fuel consumption, and percentage of renewable energy from the system.
The drop in photovoltaic energy conversion efficiency under actual operating conditions because of cell temperature increase is a significant challenge to PV adoption and utilization. In this study, the efficiency and effectiveness of using underground water in cooling and cleaning photovoltaics will be practically ascertained in Baghdad-Iraq. Method: The cooling mechanism utilizes copper pipes in a modified spiral flow configuration. This developed system is referred to as Photovoltaic thermal (PV/T). To study the effect of using underground water wells on the performance of the PV system, two wells were drilled four meters apart to prevent the interference of cold well water and hot water from the heat exchanger. The water is drawn from the first well, with a depth of 8.86 m, and the hot water flowing out of the collector is injected into the ground through the second well, which has a depth of 8.43 m. Results: The outcome reveals that relying on a cooling source with a constant-low temperature (21°C) offers excellent cooling for the PV module, compared to an uncooled PV module, by 6°C at 7:00 AM and increased to reach 22°C at 1:00 PM. This reduction in temperature resulted in an average increase in electrical efficiency by 16.7%. The thermal efficiency ranges from 14% at 7:00 AM to 58% at 2:30 PM. Conclusion: The findings suggest that this approach is energy efficient and effective during the summer season.
p>Water resources are essential for human consumption and food production. The extraction and delivery of water resources are highly dependent on energy. Hence water, energy and food security are inextricably linked, and this nexus constitutes a major global societal challenge. Furthermore, globally, irrigation constitutes around 70% of our freshwater resources, rising to 90% in developing countries. There are over 300 million drinking water and irrigation ponds globally where 90% of the world's standing irrigation water resides. There is a need to conserve such resources, considering more than two thirds of the world's population are currently experiencing water stress.
Hence, this work tackles the conservation of such resources addressing two important issues related to energy and water, thereby addressing elements of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Its considered approach is the use of floating solar photovoltaic (FPV) technology implemented on irrigation reservoirs to conserve water by reducing evaporation losses whilst providing sustainable electricity at enhanced yield that can be utilised locally.
For the study, we selected an arid and water stressed region of Jordan where real-world water and energy consumption data were available. Various floating PV (FPV) system configurations were modelled for installation on an irrigation reservoir where currently no FPV exists. A fixed tilt 300 kWp FPV system was found to be the optimum design in terms of water savings, energy yield, economics, and reductions in CO<sub>2</sub> emissions. Standard floating PV was deemed the preferred option compared to ground-mounted PV and FPV with tracking and/or active cooling. System payback period for the recommended design was 8.4 years with an annual greenhouse gas emission reduction of ∼ 141TCO<sub>2</sub>. For the considered site, around 12,700 m<sup>3</sup> of water can be saved annually or 42% savings when compared to the uncovered reservoir.
This research has wider applicability to other arid regions such as Africa, Middle East, and the Indian Subcontinent.</p
Prepared by the Advancing Renewable Energy Technologies Committee of the Environmental and Water Resources Institute of ASCE
Renewable Energy Technologies and Water Infrastructure provides readers with a critical review of policy, regulation, science, and engineering with respect to the development and application of renewable energy technologies to the effective operation of water infrastructure. Using effective energy policy and rulemaking, the US has successfully started incorporating renewables within statewide energy mixes. Practical applications and the latest developments surrounding the integration of renewable energy into existing water infrastructure are rapidly evolving and deserve far greater attention.
Detailed topics covered in this book include: renewable energy policy and regulatory requirements; micro-hydro power; biofuels; biogas-to-energy CHP; fuel cells for clean water; sustainable desalination; geothermal energy; solar and wind energy toward resilient water infrastructure; application of renewables for monitoring water quality; and proven renewable energy applications to water infrastructure.
This book will be a valuable resource for academics, scientists, engineers, policy makers, and other practitioners working on water infrastructure and the applications of current sustainability and resilience needs with respect to the water-energy nexus.
Solar water pumping systems are fundamental entities for water transmission and storage purposes whether it is has been used in irrigation or residential applications. The use of photovoltaic (PV) panels to support the electrical requirements of these pumping systems has been executed globally for a long time. However, introducing optimization sizing techniques to such systems can benefit the end-user by saving money, energy, and time. This paper proposed solar water pumping systems optimum design for Oman. The design, and evaluation have been carried out through intuitive, and numerical methods. Based on hourly meteorological data, the simulation used both HOMER software and numerical method using MATLAB code to find the optimum design. The selected location ambient temperature variance from 12.8 °C to 44.5 °C over the year and maximum insolation is 7.45 kWh/m ² /day, respectively. The simulation results found the average energy generated, annual yield factor, and a capacity factor of the proposed system is 2.9 kWh, 2016.66 kWh/kWp, and 22.97%, respectively, for a 0.81 kW water pump, which is encouraging compared with similar studied systems. The capital cost of the system is worth it, and the cost of energy has compared with other systems in the literature. The comparison shows the cost of energy to be in favor of the MATLAB simulation results with around 0.24 USD/kWh. The results show successful operation and performance parameters, along with cost evaluation, which proves that PV water pumping systems are promising in Oman.
The world is continuously searching for ways to improve how water is used for energy. As the population increases, so do the needs for natural resources and, in turn, the needs for energy. This research sought to show how the world has tried to achieve more sustainable forms of pressurized water distribution and to show the results that have been obtained. In this sense, technologies have been used for the production of clean energy, energy recovery instead of dissipation, reprogramming of pumping stations and hybrid systems. In many cases, much lower water and energy requirements are achieved and, in turn, greenhouse gas emissions related to water use are reduced. Sixty-one different water systems were analyzed considering different energy, economic and environmental indicators. The different operation range of these indicators were defined according to sustainable indicators.
Prediction models for renewable energy sources are frequently used to manage stand-alone micro grid systems. Such prediction models are important due to the high cost or even the unavailability of real-world data in many regions. Herein, a new technique based on the Feed-forward Back-propagation Artificial Neural Network (FBANN) model has been developed and used to predict both the hourly solar radiation and the wind speed simultaneously. The new model has been tested over the Northern and Southern regions of the Arabian Peninsula. The novelty of the model lies in the following characteristics: (i) a new integration between two different FBANN configurations has been established, (ii) only three input parameters are required for the model to run and (iii) solar radiation and wind speed are predicted simultaneously. The correlation coefficient (R) and the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) have been selected as an accuracy evaluation index between inputs and targets. To ensure reliability, the input meteorological data is immense and covers a wide time span. Results reveal that the proposed FBANN model achieves high levels of accuracy. The R value of the hybrid model for all the investigated locations is more than 0.96 while the MAPE does not exceed 3%.
A solar photovoltaic (PV) system includes the main components of PV modules, a solar inverter, and a bias of system (BoS), which can generate AC and DC power. However, the desired efficiency of PV systems relies on many factors as well as understanding the component functionality and configuration. Moreover, comprehension of the monitoring techniques and reliable engineering methods are crucial to assure the service life of the PV systems. In this chapter, various components of PV systems are discussed, including modules, convertors, inverters, storage, charge controller, and cables as well as designing different types of PV systems, namely grid-connected, standalone, and hybrid PV systems. Furthermore, this chapter provides detailed information about the monitoring methods, failure identifications, and characterizations of PV systems and ultimately, the effects of environmental and climate conditions on the reliability and durability of PV systems.
Nowadays, scientists are researching new concepts and emerging PV technologies in order to increase the potential of PV applications as well as integration into numerous fields, including mobility, built-in environment, and society, where it can be more tangible in general public services. This chapter discusses building-integrated photovoltaics (BiPV) and building-added PV (BAPV) to contribute to low-energy and zero-energy building concepts. Moreover, luminescent solar concentrator PVs (LSC PV) are presented as an innovative concept to reduce the cost of electricity generated by PV and also provide an aesthetic PV design for extensive applications. Eventually, novel approaches to applying PV in mobility and life are considered.
Knowing the climate change impacts of the energy sector, a focus is made on promoting environmentally friendly technologies. On the other side, the increasing energy demands give new opportunities for power generation. Renewable energy sources can generate energy and they seem to be more sustainable when compared to fossil fuel energy sources. Among these renewables, energy from the sun, that is, solar energy seems to be available in abundant capacities. It is a clean and inexhaustible energy that can be harvested using photovoltaic (PV) devices. These devices generate electricity when sunlight is incident. The generation potential depends on various factors such as the intensity of the solar light, local weather conditions, and the type of PV material. This chapter provides brief information on different photovoltaic technologies that are currently available on the market. In addition, it presents a few novel module concepts, and sheds light on measures that are taken to improve traditional PV modules. The performance characteristics of PV modules as well as various faults and diagnosis methods are also discussed. Finally, attention is drawn to degradation mechanisms and service life as well as standards and procedures for module testing.
Executive summary
The present report collects the technological developments of hydropower. It is a deliverable of the Low Carbon Energy Observatory (LCEO) project, a European Commission (EC) project that assesses the technological progress of clean energy sources. It is a follow-up the previous (internal – EC only) LCEO assessment (Kougias, 2016a) and presents important research activities that have taken place in EU and abroad related to hydropower. Since the operation of hydroelectric facilities involves different sectors and scientific fields, efforts of the present report focused on monitoring research and development (R&D) activities that cover the involved sectors. Thus, apart from the purely technological projects, the report covers studies that aim to enable better simulations of hydrological cycle, climate change and its relation to hydropower operation as well as the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus interactions.
In addition to projects funded under the Horizon 2020 (H2020), the present exercise screened Knowledge and Innovation Community (KIC)-Innoenergy, InnovFin and the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) schemes for relevant projects. Moreover, national research councils of countries with a strong tradition in hydropower were analysed and R&D projects supported by national research organisations were identified. This included the U.S. Department of Energy (DoE), the hydropower research organizations of Norway and China and the national research councils of Switzerland and Japan.
The identified activities fall into four main categories. Projects on hydraulic design and hydropower mechanical equipment aim at advancing the construction and operational characteristics of hydro stations. This includes advanced materials and computational models to minimise machinery wear. Efforts for increased range of operation and flexibility of hydropower have been consistent for some time now and were identified in both the present and the previous report (Kougias, 2016a). The exploitation of the generally untapped low-head hydropower potential is coupled by advancing the technical characteristics of hydrokinetic turbines. The environmental and ecological characteristics of hydropower plants have been the objective of projects with a special focus on fish population, fish-friendly turbines and the important challenge of securing the required environmental flows that allow ecological conservation. The topics of the remaining large-scale projects are the integrated water resources management, the WEF nexus, hydro-powered solutions for irrigation and advanced climate simulations. Most of these projects have additional aims to hydropower technological advancement; however, their implementation promotes a more efficient and sustainable operation of hydroelectric stations.
Hand and solar water pumping systems are considered as improved water supplies for rural areas of African countries with no access to piped water. Hand pumps are widely used because of their low initial capital costs but they are limited in terms of maximum flow rate of water. Furthermore, they are said to be more tiring to use than solar pumps. Solar pumps are a technology that is developing and is less time and energy consuming but their high initial capital costs remain a barrier to their further deployment. This study aims at developing a methodology to compare in terms of costs, photovoltaic (PV) water pumping systems to hand pumping systems, supplying water for domestic use. They are located in a rural region with no access to a water distribution scheme. A technical analysis has been done to define the systems, followed by an economic analysis to calculate the life cycle cost of both systems as well as the cost of water. Questionnaires have been submitted to collect cost data. In a sensitivity analysis, the lifespan of the systems and flow rates are modified and adjusted to find their influence on the cost of water for both systems. This methodology was applied to the case of Burkina Faso. It appears that, for the base case in Burkina Faso, the life cycle cost and the cost of water of a hand pump are lower than the one of a solar pump. Interviews performed have shown that the main decision factor between solar or hand pumps was the cost, even if the two types of pumps do not provide the users with the same level of service. However, the sensitivity analysis shows that the cost of water becomes smaller for solar pumps in some cases. Indeed, their initial capital cost is balanced by a higher flow rate or longer lifespan which means a higher output of water. Thus, for communities with a small requirement in terms of water quantity, a solar pump represents a heavy investment. But for high water requirements, if the maximum flow rate of the hand pump is 13 m 3 /day or 5 m 3 /day, then it is respectively from 30 m 3 /day and 12 m 3 /day requirement that the cost of water becomes smaller for solar pumps. When it is necessary to install several hand pumps whereas only one solar pump could be enough, this study has demonstrated that the cost of water from a solar pump could be inferior to the one of a hand pump. 3
In recent years, climate change and global warming has resulted in large amount of water required for irrigation. The designed system is an electronically controlled automatic irrigation system by using Arduino based on soil humidity sensors. An automatic photovoltaic (PV) pumping system consists of at least seven basic components, namely a PV array, a dc pump motor, a battery charge regulator, a water tank, soil humidity sensors, solenoid valves, and Arduino systems as the electronics control unit. Soil humidity sensors are placed in four different lines in the soil and controlled by four various solenoid valves. Water requirement of soil increases during consistent sunny days. The data received from the soil humidity sensors are compared with the reference values of an Arduino unit. When the humidity level of the soil is less than a certain reference level, the pump motor is started by opening its line solenoid valve. Thereafter, the land irrigation process begins. Each line is irrigated separately through a solenoid valve that is connected to the pump motor. Hence, the DC pump motor is controlled using the Arduino unit. In addition, the automatic irrigation system is monitored via a Web site and can be manually controlled if necessary. The designed system is implemented in laboratory conditions, and the results obtained are satisfactory.
With the decline in price of the photovoltaic’s (PVs) and the increase in greenhouse gases due to the use of fossil fuels the use of photovoltaic as a power source for water pumping is becoming the more attractive solution instead of using diesel/gasoline generators. This paper deal with the optimal sizing of the water pumping system instead of gasoline generator for the irrigation of the onion farms in Cameroon it also discusses a share of greenhouse gas emitted from the cultivation of onions. The study uses the data generated from a survey carried out between 2014 and 2015 of consumption gasoline/lubrificant and water production from generators on the duration of the culture in the main production Area ''10°35’N, 14°18’E''. The results of the analysis indicates that the Life Cycle Cost, 'LCC' of the photovoltaic water pumping system depends on its capital costs (67 % of LCC) while the LCC of gasoline pumping system depends largely on recurring costs (79 % of LCC). The CO2 emissions depend not only on the type of land but on the stage of plant growth. This research work also demonstrates that using the PV water pumping system can improve living conditions of farmers.
Sandia National Laboratories National Laboratories (SNL) and the Southwest Technology Development Institute (SWTDI) at New Mexico State University have been working in Mexico with a variety of program partners in developing sustainable markets for PV water pumping systems through the implementation of pilot projects. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). In the area of water pumping, the tremendous rural demand for water represents a potential renewable market of over $500 million in Mexico. Through the SNL program, more than 130 photovoltaic water pumping projects have been installed in 8 Mexican states, most in partnership with the Mexican Trust for Shared Risk (FIRCO) or the Chihuahuan Renewable Energy Working Group. This program has provided a wide database of information related to system costs that have been used to provide life-cycle cost analysis determining the competitiveness of PV technologies for water pumping as compared to traditional technologies.
Agricultural technology is changing rapidly. Farm machinery, farm building and production facilities are constantly being improved. Agricultural applications suitable for photovoltaic (PV) solutions are numerous. These applications are a mix of individual installations and systems installed by utility companies when they have found that a PV solution is the best solution for remote agricultural need such as water pumping for crops or livestock. A solar powered water pumping system is made up of two basic components. These are PV panels and pumps. The smallest element of a PV panel is the solar cell. Each solar cell has two or more specially prepared layers of semiconductor material that produce direct current (DC) electricity when exposed to light. This DC current is collected by the wiring in the panel. It is then supplied either to a DC pump, which in turn pumps water whenever the sun shines ,or stored in batteries for later use by the pump. The aim of this article is to explain how solar powered water pumping system works and what the differences with the other energy sources are.
A stand-alone photovoltaic power system is designed to operate residential appliances such as fluorescent lamp, incandescent light and ceiling fan using standard methods. The total load is estimated for four hours of operation per day. The battery is sized considering different factors that affect battery efficiency to reliably operate the estimated loads during a sequence of below average insolation. The minimum battery size is obtained to be 128Ah @ 100 hr, 24V. The PV array is sized to operate the load on a daily basis based on average weather conditions using monthly average daily values of solar radiation data for 11 years. The array is sized to proper values in order to operate the estimated load reliably in the month of minimum insolation taking into account different types of power losses. The minimum array size is obtained as 6×47Wp.
The main sources of energy that might be available in remote low populated areas Libya are either diesel generating units or wind mills for water pumping. Several problems in the working performance of these two types of energy production may arise due to environmental conditions. The lack of qualified technicians for regular and emergency maintenance reduces the energy sources' availability. Direct conversion of solar energy can replace other ways of energy delivery or production, specially in this country where the solar radiation all over the year is relatively high. On the other hand the direct conversion of solar energy is relatively expensive, however the cost of erecting long feeders and supervising them may be much expensive than the usage of solar systems. This paper investigates the economics associated with either solutions of energy production. A case study is given in details to supply one of the remote areas with population of about 250.
This paper shows the optimization of a PV- Wind system to supply the demand of water pumping in a small town in Bolivia. This work has been done with the HOGA program (Hybrid Optimization by Genetic Algorithms). The objective function to minimize in the design process is the total Net Present Cost (NPC) of the system. The system is defined as a combination of components (PV panels and wind turbines). In this case HOGA has used as an enumerative method of design, evaluating all the possible solutions to the design problem. In the example shown, the optimal system found is a Wind-Only system, not a hybrid system, due to the prices of the components and the metheorological conditions for this case.
This paper recommends an optimal sizing model, to optimize the capacity sizes of different components of photovoltaic water pump-ing system (PWPS) using water tank storage. The recommended model takes into account the submodels of the pumping system and uses two optimization criteria, the loss of power supply probability (LPSP) concept for the reliability and the life cycle cost (LCC) for the economic evaluation. With this presented model, the sizing optimization of photovoltaic pumping system can be achieved technically and economically according to the system reliability requirements. The methodology adopted proposes various procedures based on the water consump-tion profiles, total head, tank capacity and photovoltaic array peak power. A case study is conducted to analyze one photovoltaic pump-ing project, which is designed to supply drinking water in remote and scattered small villages situated in Ghardaia, Algeria (32°29 0 N, 3°40 0 E, 450 m).
This work allows evaluating the economic interest of photovoltaic water pumping systems in the desert of Tunisia which will have to satisfy an average daily volume of 40 m 3 throughout the year compared to another very widespread energy system in the area, the diesel genset (DG), by using the method of the life cycle cost (LCC). The cost per m3 of water was calculated for this system. It is found that the life cycle cost for PV system is 0.500 TND /m3 and the life cycle cost diesel genset is 0.900 TND /m3. The present study indicates economic viability of photovoltaic water pumping systems in the desert of Tunisia.
The purpose of this work is to develop an optimization method applicable to stand-alone photovoltaic systems as a function of its reliability. For a given loss-of-load probability (LLP), there are many combinations of battery capacity and photovoltaic array peak power. The problem consists in determining the couple which corresponds to a minimum total system cost. The method has been applied to various areas all over Algeria taking into account various climatic zones. The parameter used to define the different climatic zones is the clearness index KT for all the considered sites. The period of the simulation system is 10 years.
Egypt has embarked on an ambitious desert land reclamation program in order to increase total food production. Energy planners for these desert agriculture locations have chosen diesel generation power technology because minimization of the initial capital cost of a power supply system is their top priority. This heavy reliance on diesel generation has negative effects on the surrounding environment including soil, groundwater, and air pollution. Although good solar and wind resource prospects exist for the use of cleaner hybrid power systems in certain desert locations, little research has been done to investigate the economic potential of such systems in Egypt’s desert agriculture sector. Using optimization software, we assess the economics of hybrid power systems versus the present diesel generation technology in a remote agricultural development area. We also consider the emission reduction advantages of using hybrid systems. Interestingly enough, optimization results show that hybrid systems are less costly than diesel generation from a net present cost perspective even with the high diesel fuel price subsidies. Since hybrids are also more environmentally friendly, they represent a strong step towards achieving sustainable desert agriculture.
Many parts of the world as well as the western US are rural in nature and consequently do not have electrical distribution lines in many parts of villages, farms, and ranches. Distribution line extension costs can run from USD 10,000 to USD 16,000/km, thereby making availability of electricity to small water pumping projects economically unattractive. But, ground water and sunlight are available, which make solar photovoltaic (SPV) powered water pumping more cost effective in these areas’ small scale applications. Many western states including Wyoming are passing through the sixth year of drought with the consequent shortages of water for many applications. The Wyoming State Climatologist is predicting a possible 5–10 years of drought. Drought impacts the surface water right away, while it takes much longer to impact the underground aquifers. To mitigate the effect on the livestock and wildlife, Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal initiated a solar water pumping initiative in cooperation with the University of Wyoming, County Conservation Districts, Rural Electric Cooperatives, and ranching organizations. Solar water pumping has several advantages over traditional systems; for example, diesel or propane engines require not only expensive fuels, they also create noise and air pollution in many remote pristine areas. Solar systems are environment friendly, low maintenance, and have no fuel cost. In this paper the design, installation, site selection, and performance monitoring of the solar system for small-scale remote water pumping will be presented. This paper also presents technical, environmental, and economic benefits of the SPV water pumping system compared to stand alone generator and electric utility.
This study aims to introduce a review of designing, evaluating and installing Photovoltaic (PV) water pumping systems. In addition, the study presents information about the available commercial water pumps which are usually used in PV water pumping systems so as to ensure the optimal selection of the pump. In the installation section, recommendations have been mentioned in order to be followed in installing the system and in selecting the storage tank. Load match evaluation technique is used to evaluate the system and shows its feasibility. Finally, a designing example for Palestine has been provided so as to give a optimum design for the selected region.
In locations where electricity is unavailable, other means are necessary to pump water for consumption. One option is a photovoltaic (PV) pumping system. Advantages of PV pumping systems include low operating cost, unattended operation, low maintenance, easy installation, and long life. These are all important in remote locations where electricity may be unavailable. So far, in the development of this research, the focus has been to estimate the available radiation at a particular location on the earth's surface and then analyzed the characteristics of a photovoltaic generator and a photovoltaic network. The purpose of this research is to examine all the necessary steps and key components needed to design and build a pump using photovoltaic system. © 2011 Jordan Journal of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering.
Simple frameworks have been developed for estimating the utilization potential of: (a) solar photovoltaic (SPV) pumps; (b) windmill pumps; (c) producer gas based dual fuel engine pumps; and (d) biogas based dual fuel engine pumps for irrigation water pumping in India. The approach takes into account factors such as: solar radiation intensity, wind speed, availability of bovine dung and agriresidues, and their alternative uses, ground water requirements for irrigation and its availability, affordability, and propensity of the
users to invest in renewable energy devices, etc. SPV pumps are estimated to have the maximum utilization potential in India, followed by windmill pumps.
The potential of solar energy development for water pumping in Jordan was studied. For this purpose, 10 sites were selected based on the available solar radiation data. According to the annual amount of water output, the selected sites can be divided into three different categories: the first one, which includes Taffieleh, Queira, H-4, and H-5, is considered to be “adequate” for solar water pumping. Their annual amount of water output forms about 62% of all water pumped from all the 10 sites combined. Among the four sites included in this first category, Taffieleh has the highest potential. Not only can the most annual amount of water pumped be obtained from this location, but also the largest monthly amount of water—except for the month of March—during the year. Furthermore, about 51% of the annual amount of water pumped at Taffieleh is during the summer months (May–September), when the water consumption is the highest and water pumping is a necessity. The second category, which includes Ras Muneef, Mafraq, and Hasa, is considered to be “promising”. Its water output adds up to about 29% of all water pumped from all sites. The third category, including Deir Alla, Baqura, and Wadi Yabis, is considered to be “poor”. Only about 9% of the water pumped from all sites combined can be obtained from these three locations.
Solar water pumping is applied on an increasing scale where other energy sources are not available. For cost reasons, the range within which solar photovoltaic (PV) pumps present a viable alternative is limited. Most pumps installed operate in the range of a few hundred watts to some kilowatts; the demands of economic viability become more stringent for larger systems. Thus, this paper deals with the benefits and disadvantages of solar pumping for applications, preferably, where distances from the grid exceed a few kilometres, and where autonomous operation is practical. Drinking water supply in remote regions, watering of cattle or drainage tasks in low-lying fields present good examples of such appliances.
The technique of utilising solar radiation as a source of energy for pumping is described, and means of reaching a satisfactory degree of maturity and reliability are presented. The documentation includes a review of the state of the art of the technology and the basic physical laws controlling energy demand and the performance of water pumping. The importance of efficiency for a satisfactory operation is emphasized, and design methods and procedures to reach a precise prediction of yield explained. As a basis for the assessment, typical characteristics of pumps and motors are presented, and the results confirmed by experimental data from field trials.
Last, but not least, the issue of economics is discussed, on the basis of comparison between PV and conventional fossil fuel-powered pumps. High investment costs are identified as the most important limiting factor for more widespread application. Despite this fact, an increasing number of PV pumps have been installed and operated successfully in many countries in the “solar” region. Since in these regions the import of products is often hampered by lack of funds, the issue of local production of components for solar pumps is also discussed.
The optimal utilization of solar cell modules in varied climates is of major economical importance. In many locations, especially in the rural areas and remote sites, the solar modules are often utilized non-economically because of the lack of solar irradiation and climatological data. In this work, using solar irradiation estimation and cloud cover data interpolation techniques, and incorporating the irradiation dependent efficiency function of the solar cells, the tilt angle of the modules is first optimized. The cloud cover data is then used to estimate the expected number of successive cloudy days in each month with the result applied for optimal sizing of the storage battery. This optimization technique has been applied to the varied climates of Iran.
Renewable energy can potentially play a role in the supply of safe water in Bangladesh, where nearly 70% of the rural population does not have access to electricity. This paper examines the possible application of renewable energy for pumping water from geologically safe deep tubewells to overcome limitations in existing water technologies in the arsenic-contaminated villages in Bangladesh. Renewable energy, national grid electricity, and alternatives such as diesel engines have been considered as sources of power for both suction and submersible pumps in electrified and non-electrified villages. Three locally available renewable energy sources (human energy, biogas, and solar energy) have been assessed as power sources for reciprocating and submersible pumps. These renewable energy options have not been found cost competitive with the deep tubewells which run off the national grid in electrified villages. However, electricity generated from biogas has the potential to power submersible pumps in non-electrified villages. This paper discusses some financial mechanisms to promote capital-intensive energy options for deep tubewells in arsenic-affected rural areas.
This work aims at studying the possible application of solar energy to deep well water pumps for water supply in rural or isolated zones. Developing countries are composed of numerous small villages and farmers, making it economically unviable to extend the electrical national grid to every location where it is needed. Also the difficulty in collecting dues makes this solution even less viable. These countries still struggle with the lack of water in many villages and farms. These factors, along with the increase in the price of conventional energy sources and concerns regarding sustainable growth, have led to the development of solar powered water pumps. Most African, South Asian and Latin-American countries have good sun exposure almost all year and many of its villages still have lack of water. For this study we considered a small village composed of 10 families with a daily consumption of 100 l each, a well with a depth of 100 m, a reservoir 10 m above ground level, an autonomy of 6 days and a permitted loss of load of 2%. In this work a PV advanced model was used. For the conditions mentioned, a water cost of 1.07 €/m3 and an investment cost of 3019 € were obtained. A pump power of 154 W and a solar array of 195 Watt peak (Wp) are necessary. The water cost obtained is believed to be a competitive value proving these types of solutions as good alternatives to extending the electric grid or having a diesel generator connected to the pump.
In the development of energy sources in rural regions in Egypt at the brink of the 21st century, it is necessary to view the use of solar energy in all applications as one of the most promising new and renewable energy sources. This paper presents a study and design of a complete photovoltaic system for providing the electrical loads in a family house according to their energy requirements. A computer program is developed to achieve this and to determine the specifications of photovoltaic (PV) system components. It uses the solar energy data of the selected rural zone and all the required information about the electrical loads. Also, the effects of solar intensity variations and surface temperature variations on the amount of power provided by the PV panels are taken into consideration. It is found that providing electricity to a family house in a rural zone using PV systems is very beneficial and competitive with the other types of conventional energy sources, especially considering the decreasing prices of these systems and their increasing efficiencies and reliability. They have also the advantage of maintaining a clean environment.
The combined utilization of renewables such as solar and wind energy is becoming increasingly attractive and is being widely used for substitution of oil-produced energy, and eventually to reduce air pollution. In the present investigation, hourly wind-speed and solar radiation measurements made at the solar radiation and meteorological monitoring station, Dhahran (26°32′N, 50°13′E), Saudi Arabia, have been analyzed to study the impact of key parameters such as photovoltaic (PV) array area, number of wind machines, and battery storage capacity on the operation of hybrid (wind + solar + diesel) energy conversion systems, while satisfying a specific annual load of 41,500 kWh. The monthly average wind speeds for Dhahran range from 4.1 to 6.4 m/s. The monthly average daily values of solar radiation for Dhahran range from 3.6 to 7.96 kWh/m2. Parametric analysis indicates that with two 10 kW wind machines together with three days of battery storage and photovoltaic deployment of 30 m2, the diesel back-up system has to provide about 23% of the load demand. However, with elimination of battery storage, about 48% of the load needs to be provided by diesel system.
Many rural areas in ESCWA member countries are still suffering from a lack of access to energy services, especially electricity supply. Photovoltaic (PV) applications could supply electrical energy needed in rural, remote, and deserted areas for water pumping to supply the Bedouins and their herds as well as the villagers and their livestock with their needs of potable water. In this paper three options for electric supply to the water pumping system are evaluated: 1) Extension of national electric grid (to 5 and10 kms), 2) Diesel generation sets, 3) PV systems (with system cost 5, 7, 10, and 15 $US /Wp). The cost analysis has been done for determining the cost of the kilowatt hour produced from the three options during the life of the PV systems (assumed to be 20 years), and for two scenarios the first considers the diesel fuel price is equal 250 US$/ton, and a simple interest rate is 6% and the second scenario considers the diesel fuel price is equal 350 US$/ton, and a simple interest rate is 10%. The paper concluded with listing, of priority order of technical alternatives based on comparing the balance costs for each kwh produced during the life of PV system. The opportunity for competition between photovoltaic systems and other alternative systems depends on the price level that photovoltaic systems can achieve. The PV systems are competent with other options when the total cost of the PV system less or equal to 7$US / Wp. On the Other side, most of the Arab countries have remote and deserted areas The paper will come out with estimation of PV systems needed for water pumping during the 10 coming years in ESCWA member countries, which could be a very good opportunity for the application of the PV Systems market.
There is scope for utilisation of alternative sources of energy to replace traditional human and animal powered systems, diesel engines and electric motors for water pumping in rural areas. Solar water-pumping systems are suitable for drinking water and minor irrigation applications in areas where cheaper sources of energy are not readily available.
We examine simple yet accurate analytic procedures for designing optimal stand-alone photovoltaic power generation systems. Solar electricity systems can represent a cost-effective alternative to high cost, conventional, diesel-fired generators, particularly in developing countries where most of the population lives in rural and isolated areas. However, the lack of simple but accurate analytic design tools currently results in either (a) significant, wasteful oversizing or (b) extremely high design costs for one-of-a-kind projects. The analytic solutions discussed here can bring the price of stand-alone photovoltaic systems to economic viabilty at today's hardware and fuel prices, and can also enable local designers in developing countries to design these systems economically and on their own. The analytic models are based on the theory of stochastic processes, and stem from analyses originally developed for analogous water reservoir, queueing and insurance risk problems.
This paper examines and compares the cost-effectiveness to energize pumping systems in remote areas on northern Chile by means of photovoltaic systems, diesel engines and grid extension. Variables such as the distance to the power grid, the voltage grid, the prices of electricity and fuel, and the required investments, are taken into account. The comparison is made for wide range of variable values, distances and pumping requirements. The results obtained are useful for choosing the best alternative for the power supply of pumping systems in wells in Northern Chile.
In this work, the performances of the photovoltaic pumping destined to supply drinking water in remote and scattered small villages have been studied. The methodology adopted proposes various procedures based on the water consumption profiles, total head, tank capacity and photovoltaic array peak power. A method of the load losses probability (LLP) has been used to optimize sizing of the photovoltaic pumping systems with a similarity between the storage energy in batteries and water in tanks. The results were carried out using measured meteorological data for four localities in Algeria: Algiers and Oran in the north, Bechar and Tamanrasset in the south. The results show that the performance of the photovoltaic pumping system depends deeply on the pumping total head and the peak power of the photovoltaic array. Also, for the southern localities, the LLP method shows that the size of the photovoltaic array varies versus LLP on a small scale. On the other hand, for the northern localities, the sizing of the photovoltaic array is situated on a large scale power. Because of the current high crud-oil price, the photovoltaic pumping still to be the best adopted energy resource to supply drinking water in remote and scattered villages.
PV systems are already cost-effective for rural electrification of scattered houses and villages in sunny areas of the world. To increase the feasibility of a large scale application there are some aspects that need better understanding and improvement. Some are technological, but also organizational, social and institutional. The district of La Garrotxa (Catalonia, Spain), is a mountainous zone with scattered population, part of which is not connected to the electric grid. In order to provide this service, the local authorities promoted an electrification project of 65 sites with stand-alone PV systems, within the framework of the European THERMIE programme. A comprehensive approach has included the following aspects. Organizational: The contractor has been an association of users. After commissioning of the systems, operation, monitoring and maintenance of the plants are the responsibility of the association. Users pay a monthly fee and contribute to some maintenance tasks. Training has been provided to the users on high efficiency appliances and load management. Technological: A new PV power conditioning unit, specifically designed to simplify servicing, has been evaluated. Its main features are a modular inverter, with a sinusoidal wave, and power range of 1–4 kW, PV regulator with MPPT, a battery gauge (state of charge algorithm) and an integrated data logger for the operating parameters. The analysis of the experience gained through this project contributes to a better understanding of the interacting parameters in these applications.
Depleting oil and gas reserves, combined with the growing concerns of global warming, have made it inevitable to seek alternative/renewable energy sources. The integration of renewables such as solar and wind energy is becoming increasingly attractive and is being used widely, for substitution of oil-produced energy, and eventually to minimize atmospheric degradation. The literature shows that commercial/residential buildings in Saudi Arabia consume an estimated 10–40% of the total electric energy generated. In the present investigation, hourly wind-speed and solar radiation measurements made at the solar radiation and meteorological monitoring station, Dhahran (26°32′ N, 50°13′ E), Saudi Arabia, have been analyzed to investigate the feasibility of using hybrid (wind+solar+diesel) energy conversion systems at Dhahran to meet the energy needs of twenty 2-bedroom houses. The monthly average wind speeds for Dhahran range from 4.1 to 6.4 m/s. The monthly average daily values of solar radiation for Dhahran range from 3.6 kWh/m2 to 7.96 kWh/m2. The performance of hybrid systems consisting of different rated power wind farms, photovoltaic (PV) areas, and storage capacities together with a diesel back-up are presented. The monthly average daily energy generated from the above hybrid system configuration has been presented. The deficit energy generated from the back-up diesel generator and the number of operational hours of the diesel system to meet a specific annual electrical energy demand of 702,358 kWh have also been presented.
Solar-powered agricultural irrigation is an attractive application of renewable energy. However, to be practical it must be both technically and economically feasible. Here, a method is presented for calculating the feasibility of photovoltaic-powered (PVP) irrigation. The feasibility is expressed as a function of location, which includes climate data, aquifer depth and cost, including local political policies such as carbon taxes. A discounted cash flow analysis is used to compare the lifecycle costs of photovoltaic-, diesel engine- and electrical grid-powered irrigation systems. Five examples illustrate the method's application. These results suggest that PVP irrigation is technically and economically feasible, provided that there is enough land available for the solar array.
As a contribution to the development program of rural areas in Palestine, this paper presents three energy supply alternatives for a remote village represented in PV system, diesel generator and electric grid. Design of these systems and the associated costs of their utilization are illustrated.A computer-aided dynamic economic evaluation method with five indicators is used to compare the economic-effectiveness of these energy systems. The results show that, utilizing of PV systems for rural electrification in Palestine is economically more feasible than using diesel generators or extension of the high voltage electric grid. The obtained results represents also a helpful reference for energy planers in Palestine and justify the consideration of PV systems more seriously.
Thesis (Ph. D.)--University College, Cardiff, 1992.
In this paper, a methodology for calculation of the optimum size
of a battery bank and the PV array for a standalone hybrid wind/PV power
system is developed. Long term data of wind speed and irradiance
recorded for every hour of the day for 30 years were used. These data
were used to calculate the average power generated by a wind turbine and
a PV module for every hour of a typical day in a month. A load of a
typical house in Massachusetts, USA, was used as a load demand of the
hybrid system. For a given load and a desired loss of power supply
probability, an optimum number of batteries and PV modules was
calculated based on the minimum cost of the power system
Solar (photovoltaic) water pumping, Bourton hall, Bourton-on-Dunsmore
- the Schumacher Centre for Technology and Development Practical action
- the Schumacher Centre for Technology and Development Practical action
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