Researchers from Aksum University compare solar water pumping with diesel pumping for smallholder agricultural irrigation in Ethiopia in a study published on 6 October 2026 in Scientific Reports. The work combines climate and crop-water modelling with PVsyst and life-cycle assessment to examine a nine-month, double-irrigation season.
What the modelling covers
The paper estimates the photovoltaic array needed to deliver the required annual irrigation volume and compares energy, cost and environmental indicators with a diesel alternative. Its framework links CLIMWAT weather data, CROPWAT crop-water calculations and PVsyst system modelling. The reported design uses a 9.6 kW PV array with a 79% performance ratio for the assessed scenario.
The result is a location-specific analysis, not a universal pump-sizing rule. Water demand, solar resource, borehole conditions, fuel prices, finance and maintenance can change the comparison. For project teams, the useful takeaway is to evaluate the water duty and full life cycle together rather than compare only the nameplate price. Aquasolar did not participate in this research.
FAQ
What systems does the paper compare?
It compares solar water pumps and diesel water pumps for agricultural irrigation in Ethiopia.
Which tools are combined in the assessment?
The study uses CLIMWAT, CROPWAT, PVsyst and life-cycle assessment methods.
What is the source?
Scientific Reports study, published 6 October 2026.
