Details

Powering agriculture with clean energy, efficient pumping, and sustainable irrigation. This 5 kW solar-powered irrigation system was developed to provide a reliable and sustainable water supply for agricultural cultivation. The system integrates a 5 kWp solar PV array, 2.2 kW Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), and 3 HP water pump to efficiently extract and distribute water for agricultural fields. Since its installation in 2022, the solar irrigation system has helped reduce dependence on conventional grid electricity and provide a cleaner alternative for agricultural water pumping. The system supports irrigation across approximately 35 Bigha of agricultural land, serving rice and corn cultivation throughout different growing seasons. By utilizing solar energy during daytime pumping hours, the system converts abundant sunlight into useful energy for agricultural productivity while reducing operating costs and environmental impact. Sustainable Agriculture in Action The project demonstrates how solar energy, efficient motor control, and agricultural water management can work together to create a more sustainable irrigation solution. The integration of the 2.2 kW VFD allows the pumping system to operate with controlled motor speed according to operating requirements, helping improve pumping efficiency and reducing unnecessary energy consumption. Combined with solar generation, this provides a practical pathway toward low-carbon and cost-effective agricultural irrigation. Environmental Impact By replacing a portion of conventional electricity consumption with renewable solar energy, the system is estimated to have generated more than 30 MWh of clean electricity since 2022, avoiding approximately 18.6 tonnes of CO₂ emissions based on a 0.62 tCO₂/MWh grid emission factor. More importantly, the system continues to support agricultural production across approximately 35 Bigha, helping farmers maintain water availability for rice and corn cultivation across multiple seasons. Clean Energy + Smart Pumping + Sustainable Irrigation = More Resilient Agriculture Estimated impact since 2022 Solar capacity: 5 kWp Pump: 3 HP water pump VFD: 2.2 kW Estimated annual solar energy: ~7,500 kWh Estimated electricity offset since 2022: 30,000+ kWh Estimated carbon offset: ~18.6+ tonnes CO₂ Irrigation coverage: ~35 Bigha Application: Rice and corn cultivation across multiple seasons