PROGRESS ON SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC PUMPING IRRIGATION TECHNOLOGY

Solar energy is considered a clean and renewable and safe energy source. With the development of photovoltaic (PV) technology and reduction in costs of PV cells and modules, solar PV pumping irrigation has been widely applied throughout the world. Applying together with micro irrigation technology, PV pumping irrigation has demonstrated a robust fusion in rural development, ecological conservation, and a viable technology for increasing farmers' incomes and living standards by reducing poverty, and improving the living conditions of women by reducing labour intensity. This paper presents innovations in solar PV pumping technology, and a new business model and policy for enhancing the extension of solar PV pumping irrigation technology. Copyright (c) 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.