Energy Saving Technologies for Automatical Move Irrigation Equipment

Abstract

The number of automatic move irrigation systems is increasing. In order to reduce the cost of energy consumed, four technologies have been analyzed. The use of the power from the electrical grid may have the best results, but the cost-effectiveness of this power supply scheme depends on the line length. The use of irrigation water to cool an engine is safe against other technologies and this technology is always profitable. The efficiency of liquefied petroleum gas as an engine-generator fuel is moderate and depends on the ratio of fuel prices. A hydraulic drive of alternator can potentially save up to 50 % of fuel costs.