Design and performance analysis of a directly-coupled solar photovoltaic irrigation pump system at Gaibandha, Bangladesh

Abstract

Due to climate change and high price of fossil fuel, demand of electricity for irrigation need is increasing. Harnessing solar power to meet this increasing demand can be a good solution. In this paper, we have shown the design and performance analysis of a directly coupled solar photovoltaic (PV) motor-pump system operating at Gaibandha, Bangladesh. Three 1kW DC series motor coupled with pumps were powered by photovoltaic panels of 2kWp. The motor pumps were directly connected without any converter. All of the components of the system were available and bought from the local market. With average insolation, the system can lift 1,20,000 to 1,72,000 lit/day. We have calculated the efficiency of the motor-pumps at different time of the day. Finally, we have calculated the simple payback period of the system. We found the system to be viable technically and economically.