An economic analysis of photovoltaic water pumping irrigation systems. Issue 8 (20th June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Campana, Pietro Elia; Olsson, Alexander; Li, Hailong; Yan, Jinyue
• Is Part Of: International journal of green energy. Volume 13:Issue 8(2016)
• Page Start: 831
• Page End: 839
• Publication Date: 2016-06-20
• Subjects: Climate change mitigation -- economic analysis -- grassland desertification -- irrigation -- photovoltaic water pumping; Power resources -- Research -- Periodicals; Energy industries -- Periodicals; Energy development -- Periodicals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1080/15435075.2016.1161631
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1543-5075

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Irrigation using the photovoltaic water pumping (PVWP) systems represents a sustainable and attractive solution, which can combat Chinese grassland desertification and promote a sustainable development of the agricultural sector. This paper investigates the economics of PVWP systems taking into consideration the effects of the key components on the initial capital cost (ICC), life cycle cost (LCC), and revenues. Sensitivity analyses are conducted regarding the crop yield and price, cost of photovoltaic modules, and system components included in the ICC. Results show that the cost of the PVWP system is the most sensitive parameter affecting the ICC under the assumptions made, especially the cost of the PV modules; whereas, the crop production and price affect the net present value (NPV) and payback period (PBP) clearly. The PVWP has surplus power output when the crop water demand is low or it is non-irrigation season. The potential benefit from selling the surplus electricity is also discussed. In addition, the indirect benefits of carbon sequestration and CO2 emission reduction by applying PVWP systems are addressed in this paper.