How To Choose The Right Solar Water Pump For Your Farm
                     How To Choose The Right Solar 
Water Pump For Your Farm
Solar water pumps have emerged as a revolutionary solution for farmers looking for 
sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable irrigation. With rising electricity costs, fuel price 
volatility, and water scarcity, these pumps offer a practical alternative to diesel and 
grid-powered pumps. However, not all pumps are equal, which is why selecting the 
right solar water pump is essential, and requires careful consideration. A wrong choice 
can reduce efficiency and limit the benefits of solar technology. Let’s help you 
understand a step-by-step approach to choosing the right solar water pump depending 
on factors like your farm size, crop type, water source, and more.
What are your water requirements?
You need to understand your farm’s water requirements, which depends upon various 
factors like the crop types you grow, the number of crops you need to grow, the 
cultivation area, and the irrigation method. Different crops require different irrigation 
volumes; for instance, paddy and sugarcane are water-intensive, while millets and 
pulses require less water. Depending upon this, you need to assess how much water you 
will require per day for the number of crops you need to grow. You also need to take 
into account the irrigation method that you employ. For instance, drip irrigation 
requires much lesser water as compared to flood irrigation. Then, sprinkler systems 
provide uniform water distribution, but may need higher pressure.
Factors to consider
Identify the water source
The type and availability of water on your farm significantly affects the choice of solar 
water pump. Borewells, ponds, rivers, canals,
 Borewell: Borewell pumps are designed to lift water from deep underground, 
which requires that you access the depth of your borewell. Submersible pumps 
can be best suited here, if the depth is more than 10 metres.
 Pond: Ponds typically have shallow water levels. Surface pumps can work here if 
the water source is less than 7-8 metres deep. However, you need to 
ensure that the pond has sufficient water throughout the season.
 River/canal: Surface pumps are suitable for rivers and canals too, provided they 
have a continuous water supply during peak irrigation periods, despite the 
regular water level fluctuations.
Determine the pump capacity
The pump capacity depends on the crop type, water requirement, and irrigation 
schedule. Small farms up to 1 acre in size can work well with pumps having 2000-5000 
litres per hour capacity; medium farms ranging between 1-5 acres in size may need 
pumps having 5000-15000 litres per hour capacity; while large farms more than 5 acres 
in size need high-capacity pumps of 15000-5000 litres per hour. Along with the 
capacity, you also need to consider the pump head requirements, which refers to the 
height the pump must lift water. This includes the vertical distance from the water 
source to the highest point of irrigation, the extra height for sprinklers or drip systems, 
and the resistance in pipes and fittings. Selecting a pump with the correct head rating is 
critical for efficient water delivery.
Evaluate the solar panel requirements
Solar water pumps are powered by photovoltaic panels, and their efficiency depends 
upon the power rating, solar panel capacity, orientation, and shading. The solar panels 
must provide sufficient energy to meet the pump’s power rating and other 
requirements during peak sunlight hours. The panels should be positioned o maximize 
sunlight exposure and minimize shading.
Consider the irrigation method
Your irrigation technique affects the pump selection too. For instance, drip irrigation 
requires steady low-pressure flow; ideal for water conservation and nutrient delivery. 
Sprinkler irrigation requires higher pressure; pumps must deliver adequate flow and 
pressure. Flood or furrow irrigation requires high volume but low pressure; pumps 
must ensure sufficient discharge.
Consider seasonal and climatic conditions
Solar pumps are most effective in areas with ample sunlight, and regions that are 
typically hot. You need to evaluate the average sunlight hours per day you receive to 
size the panels correctly. You also need to consider the rainy season – how many 
months of rains do you expect every year, and how much rain is received, as pumps 
operate less effectively in monsoon months, which affects storage planning.
Choose the ideal pump type
Solar water pumps are available in various types. For instance, submersible pumps are 
submerged underwater, helping to lift water from significant depths, and proving 
effective for deep wells and borewells. Surface pumps, on the other hand, are suitable 
for ponds, rivers, and canals. Then, there are centrifugal pumps that are best for low-to- 
medium lift irrigation. They are commonly used in combination with solar panels for 
surface water pumping.
Selecting the right solar water pump – A step-by-step 
guide
Here is a practical step-by-step approach to select the right solar water pump.
 Determine daily water requirements based on crops and area.
 Assess the water source, including depth, flow, and reliability.
 Calculate pump capacity and head based on water demand and terrain.
 Select the pump type suitable for your farm.
 Size the solar array to ensure sufficient energy for consistent operation.
 Check local climatic conditions and seasonal variations.
 Consider integration with drip, sprinkler, or smart irrigation systems.
 Evaluate durability, warranty, and after-sales support.
 Finalize the system and ensure professional installation for optimal 
performance.
Choosing the right solar water pump is essential for farmers looking for cost-effective 
irrigation solutions. By assessing water requirements, understanding the water source, 
calculating the pump capacity, and factoring in solar panel requirements, farmers can 
select a system that maximizes efficiency and crop productivity. For farmers in 
Bangalore seeking reliable solar water pumping solutions, Surya Solar offers high- 
quality solar water pumps in Hosur tailored to meet diverse irrigation needs. With 
durable designs, low maintenance requirements, and excellent after-sales support, 
Surya Solar helps ensure efficient water management and long-term agricultural 
success.
Resource : How To Choose The Right Solar Water Pump For Your Farm