An Appraisal of Solar Powered Water System for Sustainable Rural Development
- September 30, 2019
- Posted by: RSIS
- Categories: Electrical and Electronics Engineering, IJRSI
International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) | Volume VI, Issue IX, September 2019 | ISSN 2321–2705
An Appraisal of Solar Powered Water System for Sustainable Rural Development
Makinde Kayode1, Man Alhaji Sulaiman2, Ibrahim Abubakar3, Amao Enock4
1,2,3Department of Electrical Engineering, Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State, Nigeria
4Department of Physics, Federal Polytechnic Bida, Niger State, Nigeria
Abstract: – In locations where electricity is unavailable, other means are necessary to pump water for consumption. Solar photovoltaic is strongly proven for cutting down greenhouse gases emissions, cost of fuel (diesel) and environmental pollution problems that the world is facing today due to the use of non-renewable energy sources. Niger state considered in this study is also experiencing these challenges with imbalance and unreliable electrical power supply. The case chosen was Gubata village in Gbako local government, Niger State. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potentiality and cost effectiveness of using solar borehole system in Gubata Village in Gbako local government area in Niger State. The Analysis of the solar powered system was based on the estimated daily water supply rate of 40,000 litres. A cost-comparison analysis between the solar-powered system and generator powered system was done using Life-Cycle Costing Analysis. Results obtained from the study showed that a 1.4 kW solar powered unit can supply the desired water quantity. Comparing the power supply costs of both systems over a 5-year life cycle showed that the diesel-generator powered system has a present value cost of about 230% higher than that of the solar powered unit. The outcome of this study showed that the PV pumping systems include low operating cost, unattended operation, low maintenance, easy installation, and long life.
Keywords: Solar Power System, Solar Pump, Design, Motorised pump, Rural areas, Sustainability, Cost Benefit Analysis
I. INTRODUCTION
Energy is key to sustainable development of any communities. It is also intrinsic to meeting the developmental needs of more than 1.2 billion people worldwide living under extreme poverty. Electricity, for instance, is an indispensable input for productive and economic activities, as well as for overall health and well-being of communities (Deen, 2014).
However, expanding access to electricity services is an enormous challenge for developing countries like Nigeria.
