Automated Agriculture Pumping System Powered by Solar Energy

Abstract

Farmers presently allocate significant financial resources towards conventional gas, engine, grid, and generator pumping systems. These traditional methods not only entail substantial expenses but also entail various operational inconveniences. However, the advent of automatic solar-based water pumping technology presents a multifaceted solution that can be implemented across diverse geographical settings, with a particular emphasis on its advantages in underprivileged regions.

In remote areas where access to conventional power sources is limited, photovoltaic panels have emerged as indispensable alternatives. These panels consistently harness solar energy to generate ample electricity, catering to essential needs such as livestock management and agricultural irrigation. Traditionally, farmers heavily depended on finite energy sources, but the gradual obsolescence of these resources is evident. Many potential beneficiaries, notably rural farmers, find themselves situated far from the reach of conventional electrical grids, making access to such power sources economically unviable. Moreover, the reliance on engine-driven pumping systems proves economically burdensome and operationally unreliable due to frequent power disruptions. The escalating costs of fossil fuels, combined with insufficient maintenance infrastructure, exacerbate financial challenges for farmers. With non-renewable resources like coal witnessing depletion, consumers are increasingly gravitating towards sustainable alternatives like solar and wind energy. In smaller-scale applications, the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology emerges as a more efficient choice. Given that various irrigation points are situated in areas lacking grid connectivity, photovoltaic cells stand as a viable energy source for powering automated irrigation systems. Additionally, the integration of tracking arrays further optimizes daily pumping rates, underscoring the efficacy and practicality of employing solar PV technology to meet the energy demands of automated irrigation systems. In essence, the utilization of solar PV technology not only addresses the energy needs of agricultural operations but also underscores a pivotal shift towards renewable energy adoption, facilitating sustainable development in agricultural communities.