When electric utility service is not a viable choice, it's time to explore the alternatives. In some cases, other power sources for pumping water besides PV may be practical. These include windmills and engine generators. Windmills have been used on ranches to water livestock for generations. In contrast, PV pumping systems are quiet, need no fuel, require very little maintenance and pump the most water during the sunniest, hottest days of summers.
Sunlight is a renewable and plentiful resource.
If the pumping is sized large enough to accept additional power, PV modules can be added at a later date to increase water output. Most PV-pumping systems consist of a PV array, a water pump, a pump controller and a storage tank. Optional components include water level sensors or float switches. PV arrays are comprised of PV modules that range in size from 50 to 80 watts. The PV modules are the most reliable component in any pumping system.