Solar Irrigation FAQ's
Helping farmers save money with solar power solutions
What is Solar Irrigation?
A solar irrigation system is a sustainable agricultural solution that uses solar energy to power water pumps for irrigation purposes. It typically consists of photovoltaic panels, a pump, controller, and water distribution system.
Other irrigation infrastructure, such as centre pivot and travelling irrigators can also be powered by solar and batteries.
How Does Solar Irrigation Work?
Solar irrigation systems work by harnessing sunlight with solar panels, converting it into electricity to power a water pump. The pump draws water from a water source, such as a well or reservoir, and distributes it to crops through drip lines, sprinklers, or other irrigation methods.
Can a pivot irrigation system run entirely on solar power?
Yes, a pivot can operate solely on solar! A pivot irrigation system that is only powered by solar will only operate during the daylight hours. The solar pump and pivot irrigator will ramp up during the morning as the sun rises and then drop off in the afternoon as the sun starts dropping in the sky. For nighttime running or on demand irrigation the pivot irrigation system will need to also have a battery, a backup generator or be connected to the grid.
How much solar power is needed to run a pivot?
The power required depends on:
Pivot length and motor size – Larger pivots need more power.
Water source – Pumping from a deep bore requires more energy than surface water.
Elevation and pressure needs – Higher pressure systems use more power.
Pump size and efficiency – The size and quality of the pump and motor will have the biggest impact on the solar system size.
On demand or nighttime pumping – If you need to irrigate for a definite number of hours per day or need nighttime running, then the solar will need to be sized to meet these extra requirements.
A typical pivot may need 20–200 kW of solar capacity, depending on these factors.
Can I use a solar system with an existing diesel or electric-powered pivot?
Yes! You can: Retrofitting a solar power system to any size 3 phase electric motor is possible. The grid or generator can then be used as a backup or for nighttime operation. Installing a solar pump system to an existing pump and motor means better control of the motor speed with variable speed drives which can reduce the energy required to run the pump, making the system more efficient and cheaper to run even on electricity. Blending of power between solar, batteries, generator or grid electricity in a solar pump system means constant pressure, and the use of the cheapest form of energy first.
What are the benefits of running irrigation on solar power?
Lower operating costs – Pump for Free during the day! Eliminates or reduces fuel/electricity bills.
Energy independence – No reliance on grid connections or fuel deliveries.
Reduced maintenance – Solar has fewer moving parts compared to diesel engines, extend service periods and reduce costs of servicing and maintain diesel generators.
Environmental benefits – Reduces carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
How do I ensure my pivot runs during cloudy weather or at night?
One of the benefits of Solar Irrigation and pivots is when there is heavy cloud the pump and centre pivot irrigator will slow down together as the variable speed drive ramps the speed down and up with the available sunlight. If there is heavy cloud there may not be the need for as much water, so although the pump will slow with less sunshine, it will also speed up on those hotter sunnier days. Solar irrigation systems need to be designed to operate through cloudy weather through sizing the solar system to suit these conditions
If continuous operation, constant pressure or on demand irrigation is needed the solar irrigation system could include:
Battery storage – Stores excess solar power for night or cloudy conditions. Allows constant pressure without starting a generator for small cloud events. Batteries are a good option when only an extra couple of hours of operation is needed each afternoon.
Hybrid system – Blending power with the solar using a backup generator or the grid power allows for constant pressure through cloud events. Backup also allows for 24 hour run time when needed.
Water storage – Pumping water into a holding tank or dam during the day for later use can help with pumping efficiency, reduced energy costs or smaller night time pumps.
How does solar-powered pivot irrigation handle varying water demand?
Solar pumps are designed around the amount of water needed, if an irrigation pump is used for different sized water shifts it would be best to design the system to suit the largest water shift.
A Variable Speed Drive (VSD) helps adjust pump speed based on solar availability and water demand. Smart controllers can also automate scheduling to maximise water use when solar power is available.
Are there government rebates or grants for solar-powered pivot irrigation?
Yes! Depending on your location, you may be eligible for:
Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) – A solar rebate based on system size.
On-Farm Energy Grants – Funding to transition farms to renewable energy.
Regional Development Grants – Support for sustainable agriculture projects.
(Check with your local government for current incentives.)
What is the lifespan of a solar-powered pivot system?
Solar panels last 25+ years with minimal maintenance.
Pumps and controllers typically last 8–10 years with proper upkeep. This also depends on water quality and storm activity in your area
Batteries – most batteries these days have a 10 year capacity warranty, and depending on how they are designed and used they can give longer life spans.
Can solar-powered pivot irrigation work for all types of crops?
Yes! Solar-powered can be used for all irrigated crops, and all types of irrigation including:
Broadacre crops (corn, wheat, soybeans, etc.)
Pasture and fodder crops
Orchards and vineyards (sprinklers or drip irrigation)
What is the payback period for a solar-powered pivot system?
The return on investment (ROI) varies based on fuel/electricity savings, system size, and financing. If the irrigation can all happen during daylight hours and the pump is being used for most of the year than the pay back period can be very short. On average:
Solar only system – Payback in 3 – 5 years
Grid-connected systems: Payback in 4 –8 years. Daytime running extremely cost effective due to high electricity day rates.
Diesel replacement: Payback in 3–7 years, due to high fuel costs, carting fuel and servicing costs.
Battery System – Payback in 5 – 10 years. Although battery systems have a higher capital cost they can make financial sense and payback periods will continue to decrease as energy costs rise.
Long-term, solar pivots and solar irrigation offer significant cost savings and energy security for farmers.