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Comparative Study of Different Controllers for Solar Water Pumping Systems

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International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)

e-ISSN: 2395-0056

Volume: 12 Issue: 04 | Apr 2025

p-ISSN: 2395-0072

www.irjet.net

Comparative Study of Different Controllers for Solar Water Pumping Systems Snehal Kailas Borde1, Priyanka Manohar Ingle2, Sayli Chandrakant Lande3, Yogesh Kakasaheb Shejwal4 Chaitanya Kadadas 5, Jayaraj U. Kidav6 1, 2,3,4,5,6 National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology, Aurangabad

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Abstract -Water supply in remote and agricultural areas

remote areas where conventional water supply infrastructure is scarce. To minimize energy costs, a photovoltaic (PV) system must consistently operate at its Maximum PowerPoint (MPP). However, achieving this goal is challenging due to the non-linearity of the power-voltage (PV) curve, which is influenced by intrinsic system factors and environmental conditions. Fossil fuel reserves are finite, with estimates suggesting that coal could be depleted within 100 years, and petroleum in 50 years, leading to both resource depletion and environmental degradation due to their extensive use. In contrast, renewable energy sources provide significant advantages over conventional sources, including a positive environmental impact, zero fuel costs, and sustainability. Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)is a crucial technique for optimizing the efficiency of solar PV systems, systems, with MPPT algorithm that ensure that ensure maximum power extraction from solar panels under varying conditions. As a result, PV energy is becoming an increasingly promising alternative for meeting growing energy demands in a sustainable and cost-effective manner. A critical component of solar water pumping systems is the controller, which regulates the power and operation of the pump by managing the flow of electricity from the solar panels. The controller ensures that the pump operates efficiently, adapting to changing levels of solar irradiance through out the day [1]. The choice of controller has a significant impact on the performance, cost, and reliability of the system. Common types of controllers include DC- DC converters, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) controllers, MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), On/Off switch controllers, and Hybrid controllers. This election of an appropriate controller is paramount for optimizing energy output and ensuring reliable water supply, especially in regions with highly variable solar radiation. As the solar water pumping market grows, under- standing the strengths and weaknesses of different controllers is vital for both manufacturers and end-users seeking cost effective, long lasting, and high-performance systems. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive comparative study of the various controllers available for solar water pumping systems.

depends on solar water pumping systems (SWPS), and controllers are critical to optimizing energy conversion and ensuring steady pump performance. Although they are less expensive, traditional controllers like pulse-width modulation and on/off are less effective. Fuzzy logic, MPPT, artificial neural networks, and hybrid controllers are examples of advanced control technologies that provide enhanced energy economy and adaptability, making them more useful for maximizing system performance in a variety of environmental circumstances. These controllers' performance and dependability can be enhanced by new technologies like AI and the Internet of Things. Key Words: MPPT, Solar Water Pump, Fuzzy Logic, SWPS, ANN etc

1. INTRODUCTION The increasing demand for clean energy solutions has led to the widespread adoption of solar water pumping systems (SWPS) in agriculture and other water supply applications. These systems are attractive for their ability to operate without fuel dependency, providing a cost-effective alternative in regions with abundant solar resources. Controllers play a pivotal role in ensuring that solar energy is efficiently converted and utilized. By regulating the power flow from photovoltaic panels to the water pump, controllers enhance system efficiency, safeguard components, and adapt to varying solar irradiation levels. This study delves into the evolution of controllers for SWPS, categorizing them into traditional and advanced types and analyzing their merits, demerits, and suitability for different scenarios. Water scarcity is one of the most pressing global challenges, affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the United Nations (UN),by 2025, nearly 1.8 billion people will be living in areas with absolute water scarcity, while twothirds of the global population could be facing water stress [1]. This is compounded by the fact that global water use has increased by over twice the rate of population growth over the past century. Agriculture, which accounts for around 70 percentage of global freshwater use, is particularly vulnerable to water shortages, threatening food security in many regions. In light of these challenges, sustainable and renewable solutions, such as solar-powered water pumping systems, have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional grid-powered or diesel-driven pumps, especially in rural and

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