Shadows from fence posts, trees and other obstructions reduce solar power production drastically. Stationary solar panels recharge batteries that provide power to the pumps. Prices vary according to size of the system, amount of water required and distance it must be pumped. Pumping the same amount of water from a deep well or from a distance could cost up to twice as much. The system can be built according to specific needs.
Solar panels are available in a variety of capacities.
These systems generally pump directly into the stock tank or a temporary storage facility. The traditional prairie windmill still works well but is expensive to build. A 30 to 40 foot tower operating a cylinder pump can pump water from all types of wells and can be converted to pump from surface water sources. These large windmills are best suited to pumping into a storage facility which in turn feeds a float-controlled stock tank. Large windmills are capable of providing water for 75 to 100 head of cattle.