Techno-economic analysis and challenges of solar powered pumps dissemination in Bangladesh

In this paper, the optimal conditions for solar photovoltaic (PV) irrigation have been identified by doing a technical and economic feasibility study for Bangladesh. The optimum system is found to be a lone PV system for irrigation load below 4 kWh/Day, and a hybrid system of PV-Generator-Battery for loads greater than 4 kWh/Day with storage tank having capacity lower than 20 kWh. Excess electricity fraction can rise up to 83.2% of the total production without adequate storage capability. Alternative use of this excess electricity has to be identified. The levelized COE can be as low as $0.182 with PV in operation only. Replacing a single 1 kW diesel pump with solar PV pump has an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 12.95%, simple payback period of 9.33 years, equity payback of 8.26 years, and benefit to cost ratio of 1.08. Net annual GHG reduction of the project is 0.9 tCO2. The present policy issues, and challenges for implementation of solar irrigation pump projects in Bangladesh are also discussed in this paper. Finally, positive outcomes and challenges are identified and recommendations are given to mitigate these challenges.