Solar water pumps can supply water to locations which are beyond the reach of power lines. Commonly, such places rely on human or animal power or on diesel engines for their water supply (Omer, 2001). Solar water pumps can replace the current pump systems and result in both socio-economic benefits as well as climate related benefits. The water supplied by the solar water pump can be used to irrigate crops, water livestock or provide potable drinking water.
A typical solar powered pumping system consists of a solar panel array that powers an electric motor, which in turn powers a bore or surface pump.