Abstract

Background: Indian agriculture is the backbone of the country's economy. As the population increases, the need for water arises accordingly. The main challenge in the extraction and transportation of water for agriculture and drinking purposes is high energy consumption. Among the various alternatives, the best one is to use solar energy, which is abundant and nearly cost-free, to power any industry, especially for irrigation. Photovoltaic (PV) solutions are the most suitable for remote agricultural needs.

Objectives: The present research aimed to study the challenge of the use of solar energy, energy conversion initiatives, and the application of photovoltaic pumping systems in India and other developing countries.

Methods: Solar cells make up the smallest portion of a PV panel. Two or more distinct layers of material known as semiconductors that have been specially prepared are present in every solar cell and when exposed to light, these layers generate direct current (DC) electrical power. The electrical wiring in the circuit board accumulates the DC. After conversion, it is then given to either a DC pump or an AC pump, which pumps water while the sun shines.

Results: Water pumps powered by solar energy are less expensive, have a silent operation, and require less maintenance. Moreover, in addition to pumping water, PV panels can be used to generate electricity for domestic use.

Conclusion: Solar energy finds potential applications for agricultural uses, such as, irrigation, purification, threshing aeration, and electrical fencing. Photovoltaic arrays of solar-powered water pumping systems can be used to generate electricity, reducing the dependency on conventional energy sources.

Keywords: Irrigation system, photo voltaic pumping system, solar energy, non-conventional energy, household and agricultural applications, water pumping system.