Optimization of Irrigation with Photovoltaic System in the Agricultural Farms - Greenhouse: Case Study in Sahara (Adrar)

Abstract

Renewable energy is an alternative solution for water pumping and irrigation for isolated and arid regions. This paper analyzes the irrigation requirements of greenhouse model representative and provides solution by photovoltaic system for irrigation. According to the results of calculations, monthly water consumption varies between 1.02 m 3 and 9.70 m 3 for three products (Tomato, Muskmelon and Watermelon). The proposed technology can fully satisfy these water requirements. Furthermore, this paper discusses the economic analyses for this technology, in comparison with the diesel system. The obtained results indicates that the Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of PV system is acceptable compared to the diesel generator, where LCOE PV = 0.060 $/kWh, LCOE Diesel = 0.260 $/kWh, and the water price for PV system is 6.09 $ and for diesel system is 10.43 $, for daily consumption of 0.33 m 3 . This proves the PV water pumping system is more economical than the diesel system.