Evaluation and analysis of the energetic efficiency of center pivot irrigation systems

Abstract

With an irrigated area of approximately 710,500 ha in Brazil, it is possible to estimate an annual electricity consumption of 1,928 GWh per year due to center pivot systems. Considering the need of optimization of the irrigated agricultural production, the energies that are dissipated in the suction pipes, water supply, lateral lines and sprinkler systems are analyzed in this study and an equation is proposed to determine the useful power of center pivot irrigation systems. Three center pivot systems located in Itamarati I (a Government settlement for the landless in the city of Ponta Porã, State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil) were evaluated and measures of energetic efficiency were simulated in order to determine a viable economic configuration to meet the life span of the equipment. The systems were characterized by the energy use and results show that the average irrigation energetic efficiency may be raised from 14.9 to 25.9% leading to a possible reduction of R$ 118,800 per year over 7,200 ha, equivalent to 11% of the yearly expenses with electricity of the whole area.