The Utilisation of Solar-Powered Boreholes for Groundwater Supply: Addressing Water Scarcity in the Polokwane Municipality, Mankweng Cluster

Abstract

In many African countries, including South Africa, groundwater remains vital for rural communities, yet sustainable methods of its supply still require improvement. The purpose of this study is to enhance groundwater supply through an innovative and sustainable borehole system that improves reliability and ensures a consistent water supply. This study was motivated by the need to provide sustainable water access in rural communities by addressing critical gaps in existing groundwater supply systems, thereby enhancing community resilience. This study identified a problem of water scarcity in the Polokwane Municipality, Mankweng Cluster, where the existing borehole systems are inadequate to supply groundwater. Handpumps demand significant physical effort, grid-powered boreholes cease to operate during frequent power cuts, and the inconsistent diesel supply further limits borehole operation. The study was conducted using a qualitative approach, involving data collection through interviews that were analysed using content analysis. Findings indicate several challenges, including power cuts, diesel supply shortages, poor infrastructure maintenance, vandalism, and theft of equipment, which affect the proper operation of boreholes. The study concludes that water scarcity in the Mankweng Cluster stems from inadequate water infrastructure. The study recommends implementing a solar-powered borehole system that uses photovoltaic energy to pump water from underground aquifers.