Approximately 65 crore people are engaged in agriculture. This makes it a vital sector for the country’s agricultural economy and food security. Did you know? Over 60% of India’s cultivated land depends on groundwater. If this continues it can lead to quick depletion of water level.

Diesel pumps are a common alternative but they incur high fuel costs and as a result, they reduce farmers’ profits.

Solar powered irrigation systems (SPIS) offer a compelling solution to these challenges. It lets you use the sun’s abundant energy for irrigation. This way, you can ensure reliable water delivery without depending on fossil fuels.

Table of Contents

What is a Solar Powered Irrigation System?

Solar Powered Irrigation System (SPIS) might sound like a complex term. It is nothing but a solar-operated water pump that uses the sun’s free energy to supply water to the cultivated land. It extracts water and delivers it efficiently to crops. This reduces dependence on traditional methods of agricultural practices like diesel or electric pumps.

Let’s watch how a farmer meets his requirement of 50,000 litres of water per day on his agricultural land of 10 acres with solar powered irrigation system:

Video Source: Ripple

Components of Solar Irrigation System

Here is a breakdown of its core components:

1. Solar Panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity in direct current (DC).

2. Variable Frequency Drive (VFD): The VFD is the most important component of a solar powered irrigation system. Controls the speed and torque of the irrigation pump. It adjusts the voltage and ensures smooth operation of the solar powered pump.

3. Solar Operated Water Pumps: The electricity from the solar panels powers the pump. It extracts water from wells, canals, or other sources and supplies the water to your requirements.

4. Controllers: The intelligent controllers regulate the pump based on sunlight intensity and soil moisture levels. It ensures efficient water usage and prevents overwatering.

5. Water Storage Tank: The water tank stores water during peak sunlight for later use. It helps in supplying water consistently regardless of solar power availability.

6. Piping and Fittings: Piping and fittings transport water from the pump to the irrigation system with minimal loss.

7. Irrigation Infrastructure: Irrigation infrastructure lets you distribute the water to fields through a network of pipes. This minimises water evaporation.

8. Lightning Arrestor: Guards against lightning strikes to avoid damage and maintain system safety to the solar panels and other electrical components.

9. Earthing: Protects the system and guarantees safety from electrical problems. It cancels out the excess electrical energy supply into the earth to avoid short circuit-related damages.

10. Foundation and Mounting Structures: These robust structures provide stability and longevity for solar panels and equipment. They are crucial in areas with high winds or challenging environmental conditions. Usually, dual-axis mounting structures are found for solar pumps.

11. Solar Pump Shade: A solar pump shade is an essential component designed to protect the solar-powered water pump and other sensitive equipment from direct sunlight, rain, and dust. It helps to protect equipment, reduce maintenance and maintain efficiency.

What is a Solar Pump Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)?

A Solar Pump Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is an advanced electronic device specifically made to control how fast solar-powered water pumps work. It uses solar power and can adjust the pump speed with its variable speed controller. This makes water systems work better and use less energy turning it efficient.

Key Features and Functionality

Power Management: The VFD unit efficiently manages the power flow from the solar panels to the water pump. It adjusts the frequency and voltage of the electrical supply to control the speed and output of the pump motor.
DC to AC Conversion: Within the VFD, a DC-AC inverter converts the direct current (DC) generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC). AC is suitable for the water pump’s motor.
Programmable Control System: The VFD has a programmable control system that lets users choose how fast they want the pump to work and adjust how it runs. This helps make sure the pump works well, no matter how much water is needed.

Agricultural Problems Solved by Solar Powered Irrigation Systems

Solar irrigation systems are more than just a sustainable technology. They offer targeted solutions to specific problems in Indian agriculture.

Here are the challenges that solar irrigation system solves:

Agricultural Problem #1: Water Scarcity

Challenge: The groundwater level is gradually declining due to its overuse. As per the World Bank report on Indian groundwater, more than 60% of irrigated agriculture relies on groundwater. Water table depletion is up to 1 metre per year in some regions.

Impact on Farmers: Potential water crises impacting crop yields, increased risk of crop failure and financial losses.

How Solar Irrigation Provides a Solution:

Integrates with drip or micro-sprinkler irrigation for targeted delivery of water to the crops.
Boosts water use efficiency.
Reduces water usage for sustainable cultivation.

Agricultural Problem #2: Unreliable Electricity Supply

Specific Challenges: Frequent powercuts or no to poor availability of electricity in some regions

Impact on Farmers: Hampering water supply process through electric pump

How Solar Irrigation Provides a Solution:

Operates without depending on the electricity grid.
Ensures reliable water supply even during outages.
Protects crops from stress and ensures consistent irrigation.

Agricultural Problem #3: High and Volatile Diesel or Other Fuel Costs

Specific Challenges: High operational costs and fluctuating fuel prices create budgeting uncertainty.

Impact on Farmers: Reduced profits, the financial burden on farmers

How Solar Irrigation Provides a Solution:

Eliminates dependence on diesel fuel.
Reduces operational costs by up to around 80% compared to diesel pumps.
Provides financial stability for farmers.

Advantages of Solar Powered Irrigation Systems

Solar irrigation systems contribute to a more sustainable future.

Here are the benefits of solar powered irrigation systems:

Reduced Carbon Footprint: SPIS eliminates greenhouse gas emissions. This leads to cleaner air and a smaller agricultural footprint.
Conservation of Water Resources: You can integrate drip irrigation or micro-sprinkler technology with modern solar irrigation systems. It will promote efficient water use and minimise water waste by around 70% compared to traditional methods like flood irrigation. (Source: VikasPedia)
Lower Operational Costs: Solar irrigation systems have minimal running costs. The inverters last up to 8 years and solar panels around 25 years.

Comparison of Irrigation Cost of Different Pumps (Source: Council On Energy, Environment And Water)

Diesel Fuel Independence: Solar irrigation systems eliminate dependence on volatile diesel fuel prices which are also subject to inflation.
Minimal Need for Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance compared to complex diesel engines.
Grid-Independent: Solar irrigation systems operate independently of the electricity grid. So, you can ensure water supply even during power outages.

Disadvantages of Solar Powered Irrigation Systems

There are some challenges that hinder the widespread adoption of SPIS in India:

High Initial Costs: The initial investment for SPIS can be challenging for small and marginal farmers despite subsidies. The cost of solar panels, inverters, and pumps can be a financial burden.
Access to Financing: Limited access to financing options makes it difficult for farmers to invest in solar powered irrigation systems. Plus, challenges in getting government subsidies and loans can be discouraging.
Grid Connectivity and Infrastructure: Limited grid connectivity in rural areas restricts the integration of SPIS with the grid. The infrastructure is not sufficient yet to support large-scale deployment of on-grid solar irrigation systems.
Awareness and Adoption: Low awareness among farmers also hampers the widespread adoption of solar irrigation systems.
Risk of Theft: People install solar pumps and associated equipment in the middle of agricultural land which often stay unguarded. As a result, they are prone to theft which increases the risk for farmers. Using anti-theft nuts and bolts can help secure the system and prevent theft.

How Solar Powered Irrigation Systems Work

Solar irrigation systems operate on a simple principle: converting sunlight into electricity to power solar operated water pumps.

Let us break down this process into two key stages:

Stage 1: Conversion of Solar Energy to Electricity

Sunshine Absorption: Solar panels, made of photovoltaic cells, capture sunlight.
Electrical Generation: The captured sunlight triggers a reaction within the cells, generating direct current (DC) electricity.

Image Source: ResearchGate

Stage 2: Pumping and Distributing Water with Solar Operated Water Pumps

Electricity to Power: The DC electricity powers the solar-powered water pumps.
Water Extraction: The pump extracts water from wells, canals, or other sources depending on the system’s design.
Intelligent Control: Controllers regulate the pump’s operation based on factors like sunlight intensity and soil moisture. The VFD adjusts the pump’s speed and thrust to guarantee effective and ideal energy use to irrigate the agricultural land.
Efficient Delivery: The extracted water goes through pipes to the irrigation network (drip irrigation or solar sprinkler systems, etc.) for targeted delivery to crops.

Types of Solar Irrigation Pumps

Solar irrigation systems can use various types of pumps, each with its own advantages:

Solar Powered Drip Irrigation Systems: It uses solar energy to provide power to the drip irrigation systems. This system delivers water directly to the plant roots and as a result, it reduces water waste.

Image Source: ResearchGate

2. Solar Sprinkler Irrigation Systems: Solar sprinkler systems provide uniform water distribution over crops. It is ideal for large-scale farming.

3. Solar Surface Irrigation Systems: It employs solar pumps to lift and distribute water across fields using traditional surface irrigation methods. This system is ideal for shallow water sources like canals and ponds or furrow irrigation.

4. Solar Subsurface Irrigation Systems: It integrates solar energy with subsurface irrigation techniques. This irrigation system supplies water below the soil surface to minimise evaporation and enhance root zone efficiency. It is designed for deep-well applications.

5. Solar-Powered Pivot Irrigation Systems: Power centre pivot irrigation systems water large circular fields by rotating sprinklers around a central pivot.

6. Solar-Powered Micro-Irrigation Systems: It uses micro-sprinklers or micro-drip systems for irrigation. Thereby, it offers precise water application for high-value crops.

7. Hybrid Solar-Diesel Pumping Systems: This solar-powered irrigation system combines solar and diesel power for irrigation pumping. In this pumping system, the energy source is reliable. When solar power is insufficient, you can continue operation with fuel energy.

Innovations in Solar Irrigation Pumps

1. Solar-Powered Remote Monitoring Systems: This is a combination of solar power with remote sensors and controls to monitor. It can help you manage irrigation systems remotely. This way, you can optimise water use for better crop health.

2. Solar-Powered Water Filtration and Purification Systems: This uses solar energy to power water filtration and purification processes.

3. Solar-Powered Aquaponics and Hydroponics Systems: This system uses solar power to run aquaponics or hydroponics. It supports soil-less agriculture by circulating nutrient-rich water to plants.

India’s Position in Solar Irrigation System Installation

NITI Aayog’s water crisis report emphasises the urgency of sustainable water management. It states, “India is undergoing the worst water crisis in its history”. Solar Powered Irrigation can play a crucial role in addressing this challenge.

At present, the government is promoting the installation of solar irrigation systems by helping farmers with subsidies. Chhattisgarh is leading among other states in terms of total solar pump installation (refer to the image below)

State-Wise Number of Installed Solar Pumps in India as of March 2023 (Source: Statista Report)

Raj Kumar Singh, the former Union Minister for Power and New and Renewable Energy, reported in the Lok Sabha that over 295,000 standalone off-grid solar water pumps have been installed across India as of February 2024 under Component B of the PM-KUSUM scheme (PIB Report). This highlights the achievements of the PM-KUSUM scheme.

Government Policy on Solar Pumps and Irrigation Systems

Recogn ising the potential of solar power, the Indian government launched the PM-KUSUM Yojana in 2019. This flagship program offers financial incentives and subsidies to farmers for installing solar pumps and irrigation systems.

The PM-KUSUM scheme has three parts, each aimed at promoting solar energy use in agriculture:

Component A: Setting Up Solar Power Plants on Barren Land

Focuses on creating 500 kW to 2 MW solar power plants on unused land (barren or cultivable land).
Farmers, groups of farmers, cooperatives, panchayats and other organisations can participate.
The government offers a fixed price to buy the electricity generated for 5 years.

Component B: Replacing Diesel Pumps with Solar Operated Pumps in Off-Grid Areas

Targets farmers without access to the electricity grid (off-grid areas).
Provides support to replace existing diesel pumps with financial aid for solar operated pumps limited up to 7.5 HP capacity.

Component C: Solarising Grid-Connected Pumps

Assists farmers who already have grid-connected pumps to convert them to solar power.
Farmers can use the generated solar power for irrigation and sell any excess electricity to the local DISCOM at pre-determined tariffs.

Financial Benefit of Government Policy on Solar Pumps and Irrigation Systems

MNRE has ambitious plans targeting 30.8 GW of solar power generation by providing financial assistance through the PM-KUSUM Scheme. The govt has projected to invest over Rs. 34,000 Crore (PIB Report).

The financial breakup of PM-KUSUM is as follows:

Government Subsidy: You can get a 30% subsidy on the installation cost under Components B and C from the central government.
State Government Support: The respective state government offers an additional 30% subsidy on the installation cost under Components B and C. States like Uttar Pradesh and Haryana provide solar subsidies for installing pumps. If you are from these states and want to install solar pump, you can connect with the best solar company in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana as well as other states through Das Energie.
Loan Option: You can take a loan of up to 30% from banks to ease your financial burden.
Downpayment: You have to pay at least 10% of the total installation cost.

This scheme empowers farmers to switch from expensive diesel pumps to clean and sustainable solar irrigation.

Future of Solar Irrigation System

The future of solar-powered irrigation systems (SPIS) is promising with significant potential for technological advancements, wider adoption, economic viability and government support.

Technological Advancements in Solar Powered Irrigation Systems

Research and development are leading to the development of more efficient solar panels, powerful pumps and intelligent irrigation controllers. This will further optimise performance and cost-effectiveness. Integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and sensor technology promises real-time monitoring and data-driven irrigation.

Potential for Wider Adoption and Scaling Up in India

Government schemes, such as capital subsidies and financial incentives, are crucial in promoting the adoption of SPIS. Plus, the decreasing cost of solar panels makes SPIS more affordable. As prices continue to drop, the initial investment barrier will lower. It will encourage more farmers to adopt solar irrigation solutions.

Increasing awareness about the benefits of solar irrigation and training programs for farmers will also play a significant role in wider adoption.

Government Support and Policy Initiatives

Apart from the PM-KUSUM scheme, various state governments are offering subsidies to reduce the upfront costs of solar powered irrigation systems. Ensuring these subsidies reach small-scale farmers is critical for widespread adoption.

Economic Viability and Practical Applications

Replacing expensive and polluting diesel pumps with SPIS delivers immediate cost savings. SPIS provides a reliable and sustainable source of irrigation and boosts agricultural productivity.

Solar powered irrigation systems are a game-changer for Indian agriculture. They offer a sustainable solution to water scarcity, rising fuel costs and unreliable electricity. Solar irrigation can transform Indian agriculture with technological advancements and government support.

Solar Powered Irrigation Systems in India for Agricultural Transformation