Solar Water Pumps
Solar pumps run on power from panels, so they cut fuel or electricity use for irrigation and water supply.
Pump types
- Submersible pumps for borewells and deep sources
- Surface pumps for shallow wells, ponds and channels
What decides the design
Total dynamic head, daily water volume and available sun determine pump rating and panel capacity. A mismatch gives weak flow or wasted capacity.
Government support
Central programmes for solar pumps have existed, including PM-KUSUM. Verify current availability with UREDA before planning around it.
Checks before purchase
- Measure water level and borewell diameter
- Know your daily water requirement in litres
- Confirm the pump efficiency and controller protections
- Place panels where they stay shade-free and secure
- Agree service responsibility and spare parts availability
Water storage and use
A tank lets you use water on demand even when the sun is weak. Size it to a day’s requirement so cloud-covered periods do not interrupt irrigation.
Frequently asked questions
Do solar pumps work on cloudy days?
Flow drops with the light. Storing water in a tank covers gaps.
Can the pump also use the grid?
Hybrid controllers exist. Confirm compatibility.