Research Article
Enhancing Economic Viability of PV Water Pumping Systems for Alfalfa Irrigation Through Multi-Crop Irrigation
Belkacem Bouzidi*
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 1, February 2025
Pages:
1-23
Received:
5 December 2024
Accepted:
24 December 2024
Published:
9 January 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijees.20251001.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Desertification in Algeria predominantly affects arid and semi-arid steppes, areas that traditionally support extensive livestock farming. These rangelands, which span approximately 32 million hectares, are experiencing severe degradation, negatively impacting livestock productivity and contributing to national shortages of milk and meat. To address this, we propose the installation of optimized photovoltaic water pumping systems (PVWPS) to irrigate crops such as alfalfa, barley, and corn, while ensuring a reliable water supply for both livestock and crops. The goal is to enhance ecosystem resilience and agricultural productivity. An economic and financial analysis was conducted to evaluate the project's feasibility and profitability. An economic and financial analysis was conducted to evaluate the project's feasibility and profitability. Results showed that the system’s lowest life-cycle cost is 10,069,710 DZD, with a levelized cost of water of 3.33 DZD/m³. Optimization efforts included selecting appropriately sized PV arrays and storage tanks, as well as adjusting the tilt of the photovoltaic (PV) panels, which improved water yield by 6%. Additionally, integrating alfalfa with other crops improved water efficiency by 26.40%. This integrated approach resulted in positive net present values (NPV), a payback period of 2.87 years, and a benefit-cost ratio greater than 1. Moreover, this solution is scalable to other arid regions, particularly in the Sahel, offering a sustainable method to address water scarcity and enhance agricultural practices in similar ecosystems.
Abstract: Desertification in Algeria predominantly affects arid and semi-arid steppes, areas that traditionally support extensive livestock farming. These rangelands, which span approximately 32 million hectares, are experiencing severe degradation, negatively impacting livestock productivity and contributing to national shortages of milk and meat. To addres...
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