Feasibility analysis of a standalone direct pumping photovoltaic system for irrigation in Mediterranean greenhouses

• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.07.056
• Publication Date: 2015-08-06T10:33:22Z
• Authors: J. Reca; C. Torrente; R. López-Luque; J. Martínez
• Keywords: Hectare; Water pumping

The profitability of photovoltaic (PV) systems for irrigating Mediterranean greenhouse crops is analyzed. A standalone direct pumping PV system proposed. simulation model the was developed in order to obtain economically optimal design this and evaluate its feasibility. composed several submodels: power generation capacity submodel, management submodel that evaluates irrigation water requirements a representative overall economic performance system. effect total number sectors per hectare on has been Two strategies have considered: irrigate with only one sector simultaneously or variable as function incoming provided by array. operation strategy first second penalized higher cost pumps. becomes profitable at least 4 hectare. energy use efficiency type are relatively low, although these values could be improved if excess were used other purposes, such ventilating cooling greenhouse.