Assessment of factors influencing the sustainable performance of photovoltaic water pumping systems

In Yemen and in similar least developed countries (LDC), irrigation farming is a living principal in rural areas. Nowadays, Optimally Designed Photovoltaic Water Pumping Systems (PVWPS) are not only the most economic and environmentally adequate alternative to conventional sources but also the most economic feasible application of PV systems. However, the performance of PVWPS is a function of environmental conditions, manufacturing technology, design, and utilization. Evaluation of a sample of practically existing PVWPS in Yemen and similar LDC revealed that the performance of 60% of examined cases will decline at some time in the future. In addressing this, current study provides a comprehensive review and assessment of several factors that influence the performance of PVWPS such as: Solar Spectral Variation, Air Mass (AM), Angle of Incidence (AoI), PV cell temperature, soiling, shading, mismatch, degrading of PV modules, falling of bore-well depth, etc. This work aims to support the sustainable performance and a wide utilization of PVWPS. It will, also, benefits PVWPS researchers and practical designers, and contribute to the development of the socio-economic conditions of rural areas in LDC.