The use of solar power systems in irrigation

Abstract

Solarno navodnjavanje čini sustav povezanih cijevi pomoću kojih se navodnjava određeno područje, a crpka koja crpi vodu napaja se energijom koju proizvede fotonaponski modul. Glavne odlike solarnog navodnjavanja su jednostavnost sustava i ušteda vremena te ekološka prihvatljivost, a cijene izrade samog sustava relativno su prihvatljive. Rad opisuje osnovne principe rada sustava za navodnjavanje te nudi proračune zahtjeva za solarni sustav napajanja konkretnog voćnjaka. Glavne dijelove sustava navodnjavanja čine spremnik s vodom, crpke te cijevi, ventili i prskalice, dok se osnovni principi rada sustava navodnjavanja odnose na tlak, protok i snagu. Sustav solarnog napajanja još uključuje i fotonaponske module, regulator napajanja, baterije i pretvarač struje. Proračunato je da je na odabranom primjeru voćnjaka potrebno navodnjavati površinu od 2 200 m2 . Za to je potrebno osigurati crpku snage 375 W koja će savladati tlak od 1,978 bara i osigurati dnevni protok vode od 0,6 l/s. Osim toga, proračunati su i troškovi solarnog navodnjavanja koji iznose oko dvadeset tisuća kuna. Navedeni izračuni pokazuju da solarni sustav navodnjavanja zadržava svoje glavne odlike i kada se žele zadovoljiti zahtjevi navodnjavanja u uvjetima lokalnog podneblja.Solar irrigation system consists of a number of connected pipes used for irrigation of a certain land area, and a water pump which is powered by solar energy produced in photovoltaic panels. The system is characterized by a relatively simple construction that allows us to save time and the environment for a reasonable cost. The paper describes basic principles of irrigation system and calculations necessary for application of solar-powered irrigation system in a particular orchard. The main components of irrigation system include water tank and water pump, as well as pipes, valves and sprinklers, while the basic principles refer to pressure, flow and pump power. In case of solar-powered irrigation system there are also photovoltaic panels, voltage controller, battery and DC/AC inverter. In the particular orchard, it has been calculated that it is required to irrigate the area of 2 200 square meters. For that purpose, a water pump with the power of 375 W needs to be used in order to overcome the pressure of 1,978 bars making sure that the necessary amount of water is delivered through pipes at the rate of 0,6l/s. In addition, the costs of putting up solar irrigation system have been calculated and they amount approximately to 20 000 kn. Those calculations confirm that the benefits of solar irrigation system are evident when conditions for irrigation in local areas are taken into accoun