DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF A SOLAR POWERED IRRIGATION
SYSTEM FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
H. FathimaHakkim¹, S. Swathi², C. Priyadharshini³, M. Madhu Keerthi⁴, M. Valarmathi⁵,
T. Mithuna⁶, P. Sundareshwari⁷
¹ Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Engineering, MCE, Madurai
²³⁴⁵⁶⁷ UG Students, Department of Agricultural Engineering, MCE, Madurai
Abstract :
Agriculture requires significant energy for irrigation, crop processing, drying, storage, and
greenhouse operations. Conventional energy sources such as diesel and grid electricity increase
operational costs and contribute to environmental pollution. Solar energy has emerged as a
sustainable and eco‑friendly alternative for agricultural applications due to its abundant availability
and renewable nature. This review paper examines major applications of solar energy in agriculture
including solar irrigation systems, solar crop drying technologies, solar greenhouse systems, solar
powered cold storage, and agrivoltaic systems. Solar irrigation pumps provide a reliable water
supply while reducing dependence on diesel pumps. Solar drying technologies help reduce
post‑harvest losses and improve product quality. Solar greenhouse systems enable controlled
environment agriculture and enhance crop productivity. Solar-powered cold storage systems
extend the shelf life of perishable products in rural regions. Agrivoltaic systems allow
simultaneous crop production and electricity generation on the same land. The study highlights
benefits, challenges, and future prospects of integrating solar energy technologies into agricultural
systems for sustainable development.
Key Words :
Solar energy, Agriculture, Solar irrigation systems, Solar crop drying, Solar greenhouse systems,
Solar powered cold storage, Agrivoltaic systems, Renewable energy, Sustainable agriculture, Post-
harvest management.