Optimization of a directly coupled PV water pump for irrigation purposes

Abstract

Bangladesh is an agricultural country where agriculture sector plays an important role in boosting the economic growth. But during dry season, collecting adequate amount of water becomes challenging to farmers. The use of photovoltaic as the power source for pumping water is one of the most promising areas. Solar pumps are cost-effective and environmentfriendly. This paper deals with an optimized design for solar powered pumping system that can fulfil the requirement of water for irrigation purposes without the use of batteries or generators during the day. In Bangladesh, from February to April and from September to November are the cultivation periods. Among these periods, November and February are the most critical month due to insufficient rainfall. This work aims to the water requirement for irrigation mainly during two mentioned cultivation periods. Here, optimum tilt angle for the panel is calculated for which the required panel size is minimum that can supply the required amount of water for irrigation during the cultivation period.