Proceedings of the XXth Conference of Open Innovations Association FRUCT (Nov 2023)
"Innovative Solar Photovoltaic Solutions for Water-Efficient Irrigation: A Comprehensive Algorithmic Approach"
Abstract
This study presents a pioneering integrated comprehensive model for photovoltaic solar pumping irrigation systems, addressing critical challenges prevalent in Egypt and other developing countries. These challenges primarily revolve around the scarcity of fossil fuels and the imperative need for optimizing renewable energy usage in agriculture, as well as rectifying irrigation inefficiencies in both established and emerging agricultural areas, where flood irrigation remains a predominant but resource-intensive practice. Our proposed model synthesizes principles from agricultural science, irrigation science, and photovoltaic solar engineering. To demonstrate its efficacy, we conducted a comprehensive case study in Egypt. The results underscore the transformative potential of our approach, revealing a substantial reduction in water consumption, approximately 30% lower than that of conventional flood irrigation methods in regions, such as the Nile delta and Nile valley. However, our findings also illuminate the inherent dependence of the proposed system on photovoltaic technology, which may entail certain limitations, particularly in areas characterized by inconsistent sunlight availability. As such, this study offers a holistic assessment of the proposed system's feasibility by juxtaposing its cost-effectiveness, in the context of the Egyptian case study, against the alternative of desalinating an equivalent volume of seawater. The analysis reveals considerable cost savings of up to 1.865 billion USD and a monumental conservation of 14.025 billion cubic meters of precious irrigation water resources, reinforcing the viability of our proposed system. In addition to these insights, our research presents a versatile modular simulator, empowering PV solar engineers to tailor water pumping systems for diverse land types. This multidisciplinary framework amalgamates PV solar, electronic, irrigation, and agricultural engineering models, offering engineers optimized solutions to achieve the pinnacle of solar pumping irrigation system design. In summation, this study bridges critical gaps in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy utilization, providing a robust solution for water-efficient irrigation practices while mitigating the pressing concerns of fossil fuel depletion and environmental conservation in Egypt and analogous regions.
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