Difference Between a Borehole Pump and a Borehole Solar Pump

Solar Borehole Pump vs Borehole Pump

A borehole pump is a general term for a pump that extracts water from an underground borehole. It can be powered by electricity from the grid, a generator, or solar energy. These pumps are typically submersible and placed inside the borehole to push water up to the surface.

A borehole solar pump, on the other hand, is a borehole pump specifically powered by solar energy. Instead of relying on grid electricity, it uses photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate power, making it ideal for remote locations where electricity is unavailable or unreliable. These pumps are designed to work efficiently with DC power from solar panels, though some systems incorporate batteries and inverters to store and regulate power for continuous operation.

Electricity Requirements for a Borehole Pump

The power consumption of a borehole pump depends on several factors:

1. Flow Rate (Litres per Hour or Litres per Minute) – How much water is being pumped.
2. Pump Depth – The deeper the borehole, the more power needed to lift water.
3. Pump Efficiency – Energy-efficient pumps require less power.
4. Pump Type – AC (Alternating Current) pumps typically need an inverter when paired with solar, while DC (Direct Current) pumps can connect directly to solar panels.

A typical borehole pump for household or farm use runs at 0.37 kW to 2.2 kW (370W to 2200W), depending on size and demand.

• Small Borehole Pumps (Household Use, 0.37kW – 0.75kW)
  • Power Requirement: 370W – 750W
  • Flow Rate: 1,000 to 3,000 litres per hour
  • Depth: 10m to 50m
• Medium Borehole Pumps (Farms, Irrigation, 1.1kW – 2.2kW)
  • Power Requirement: 1,100W – 2,200W
  • Flow Rate: 5,000 to 15,000 litres per hour
  • Depth: 50m to 150m
• Large Industrial Pumps (3kW+)
  • Power Requirement: 3,000W+
  • Flow Rate: 15,000+ litres per hour
  • Depth: Over 150m

The first step would be to get a borehole of course. Find our more about our borehole drilling services here. 

Solar Borehole Pump Setup: Solar Panel, Battery, Inverter Requirements

When setting up a solar-powered borehole pump, the system must be designed to provide enough power for continuous and efficient operation.

1. Solar Panel Sizing

The number of solar panels needed depends on the power requirement of the pump. A general guideline:

• Solar panels should be placed in a location with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours per day.
• Adjustable panel mounting is ideal to maximize sunlight capture.

2. Battery Backup (For Nighttime or Cloudy Days)

Batteries store excess power generated during the day. A battery backup system is optional but recommended for 24/7 operation.

• Battery type: Deep-cycle lithium-ion or lead-acid (Lithium is more efficient and durable)
• Capacity: A 24V system for smaller pumps; 48V for larger setups
• Recommended battery size:
  • 1.1 kW pump: 24V 200Ah battery
  • 2.2 kW pump: 48V 200Ah battery
  • Larger setups require multiple batteries wired in series or parallel.

3. Inverter (For AC Borehole Pumps)

If your borehole pump runs on AC power, an inverter converts DC solar power to AC power.

• Sizing Rule: Inverter size = 1.5x the pump power
  • 1.1 kW pump → 1.5 kW inverter
  • 2.2 kW pump → 3.0 kW inverter
  • Always choose a pure sine wave inverter for reliability.

4. Charge Controller

A Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) charge controller is needed to regulate the power between the panels and batteries.

• Example sizes:
  • 30A MPPT for small pumps
  • 60A MPPT for mid-size pumps
  • 100A MPPT for large systems

Securing a Solar Borehole Pump System (Tamper-Proof Cage Setup)

To prevent theft, vandalism, and damage from animals, a secure enclosure should be installed around the borehole and solar equipment.

1. Secure the Pump and Borehole Head

• Lockable Borehole Cover – A metal or concrete cover with a lock prevents tampering.
• Pump House – If feasible, enclose the pump in a brick or steel shed.

2. Protect Solar Panels

• Height Placement: Install panels on high poles (3-4m) to keep them out of reach.
• Steel Frame with Bolted Panels: Secure panels with anti-theft bolts and welded frames.
• Tilted or Angled Panels: Angling them makes it harder to climb.

3. Enclose the System in a Steel Cage

• Use steel mesh or rebar cages (10mm thick steel bars, spaced 10cm apart).
• Secure with Padlocks: Use high-security locks on access panels.
• Concrete Footing: A metal cage bolted into a concrete base prevents removal.

4. Protect Electrical Components

• Lockable Battery & Inverter Box – Place in a steel cabinet with ventilation holes.
• Underground Wiring – Bury cables in PVC conduits 30-50cm below ground.

5. Protect from Animals (Cows, Goats, Rats, Even Elephants, etc.)

• Electric Fence: A solar-powered electric fence (5,000-7,000V) discourages large animals.
• Raised Solar Panels: Keep panels above 3m height to prevent animals from leaning on them.

A borehole pump can be powered by the grid or a generator, while a borehole solar pump operates using solar energy. The power needed depends on the depth and flow rate of the borehole, with typical setups ranging from 0.37kW to 2.2kW+.

Ensure you have a certified electrician install your solar borehole. First get a quotation for borehole drilling prices directly from us. Contact us to get a quotation for your solar borehole installation.