Received 22 May 2025, accepted 5 June 2025, date of publication 16 June 2025, date of current version 24 June 2025.

Digital Object Identifier 10.1109/ACCESS.2025.3579783

Solar-Powered Pumping for Alleviating Energy

Poverty: Sustainable Solutions for Agriculture
Sector in Portugal
ALIREZA ZABIHI 1 , TRIPURA PIDIKITI 2 , (Senior Member, IEEE), L. N. SASTRY VARANASI3 ,
GAURI KALNOOR 4 , ISKENDER AKKURT 5 , AND V. B. MURALI KRISHNA 3
1 Department of Electrical Engineering and Intelligence Systems, University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
2 Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, R. V. R. and J. C. College of Engineering, Guntur 522019, India
3 Department of Electrical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Andhra Pradesh (NIT AP), Tadepalligudem 534101, India
4 Department of CSE, Manipal Institute of Technology Bengaluru, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
5 Department of Physics, Süleyman Demirel University, 32260 Isparta, Türkiye

Corresponding author: Gauri Kalnoor (gauri.kalnoor@manipal.edu)

ABSTRACT Sustainable Development Goal 7 highlights affordable and reliable energy access as a pervasive
problem around the world, affecting millions of people struggling with energy poverty, and it hinders global
social justice, economic prosperity, and quality of life. Addressing this problem is critical to achieving
environmental stewardship and alleviating poverty. Green energies address energy poverty in nations that
are already threatened. Solar systems are sustainable solutions for decentralizing clean energy. Photovoltaic
(PV) minimizes emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. This study highlights the significance of RES
integration in tackling energy poverty in industries. Coimbra, Portugal, is used as a case study to illustrate
PV-powered irrigation networks and the agriculture sector. Results indicate the effectiveness of Portugal’s
PV-powered pumping system, meeting 94.3% of water needs with an annual efficiency of 48.3%, and
achieving a Net Present Value (NPV) of e22,469.73 and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 74.24%,
demonstrating strong economic viability over 20 years. With considerable electricity cost reductions and
a strong return on investment, the solar-powered pumping system turns out to be a profitable project.

INDEX TERMS Energy poverty, solar pumps, agriculture, renewable energy access, energy sectors,
economic analysis.

I. INTRODUCTION sustainable energy, particularly in regions. Photovoltaic (PV)

Renewable energy sources (RESs) play a vital role in systems have attracted significant interest over the past
transmission expansion planning (TEP) because they affect decade [2]. While this energy resource has some benefits and
revenue and investment choices, necessitating a cohesive challenges, researchers and engineers should take them into
planning approach to balance expenses, minimize con- account.
gestion, and guarantee reliability amid uncertain demand PV generation systems can be used for different purposes,
and generation scenarios [1]. A significant challenge in such as highways [3], energizing networks [4], solar pump-
this area is handling the uncertainties in demand and ing [5], intelligent low-energy structures [6], solar panels on
renewable energy generation while ensuring cost efficiency, rooftops [7], and refrigeration methods [8]. Primary obstacles
congestion mitigation, and dependable load delivery in TEP. for PV generation systems in these applications include
Moreover, effective TEP using RESs can assist in reducing sustaining efficiency amidst fluctuating environmental fac-
energy poverty (EP) by enhancing access to affordable and tors, integrating with existing infrastructure while ensuring
grid stability, and addressing elevated initial expenses and
The associate editor coordinating the review of this manuscript and maintenance for enduring sustainability. In addition, imple-
approving it for publication was Kai Song . menting PV generation systems across various applications,
2025 The Authors. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 License.
VOLUME 13, 2025 For more information, see https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ 105077
 A. Zabihi et al.: Solar-Powered Pumping for Alleviating Energy Poverty: Sustainable Solutions

such as highways, infrastructure, and structures, can sig- and regulatory constraints. Yogi et al. [87] highlighted that in
nificantly contribute to alleviating EP by providing cost- Nepal, modernising agriculture via improved infrastructure,
effective, decentralized power options that enhance energy technology, and assistance for women and young people can
access and resilience in underserved communities. Another increase nutrition, boost the nation’s economy, and lower
aspect that can be important is reaching optimal design poverty, but the study limited experimental validation and
or increasing the framework’s performance. In [9] authors data analysis in their case study. However, in [88] authors
optimized the design of a PV system for efficient energy found that artificial intelligence (AI), particularly through
production in Indonesia, where an optimal layout maximizes precision farming, machine learning (ML), and automation,
energy output by aligning with favorable climate conditions, has significant potential to enhance agricultural productivity,
thereby supporting the nation’s renewable energy targets but this integration limited access to high-quality, localized
and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Another way to datasets. Another important aspect of moving sustainabil-
increase PV performance can be through technologies such ity in agriculture is CO2 evaluation. While Das in [89]
as mirrors, reflectors [10], [11], [12], [13], tilt angle [14], considered emissions in the sector, the limitation is that
[15], [16], [17], bifacial technology [18], [19], [20], tracking energy storage units (ESU) are not considered; however, they
systems [21], [22], [23], and cooling systems [24], [25], [26]. can play an important role in emission reduction. Applying
However, most optimization studies [9], [10], [11], [12], [13] new technologies, like the internet of things (IoT) [65],
focus primarily on maximizing energy yield, often neglecting [90], can improve the agriculture sector’s resiliency, but
economic feasibility and social acceptance, particularly in challenges such as high implementation costs, data security
regions affected by energy poverty. Few works [e.g., 27–29] concerns, and the need for infrastructure development may
integrated simulation outcomes with real-world data, which limit widespread adoption and effectiveness.
limits the practical applicability of such models in policy This study aims to provide an insight into EP in different
planning and rural electrification strategies. However, each of sectors, which is important for a better understanding. One
these PV enhancement techniques faces specific challenges, of the limitations in previous research is considering the
mirrors can cause overheating issues, optimal tilt angles agriculture sector, which can use RESs to move toward
vary with location and season, bifacial panels require high sustainability and EP; instead of using fossil fuels for
albedo surfaces for maximum efficiency, tracking systems electricity, the engineer can apply RESs in different sections.
are expensive and increase maintenance needs, and cooling Using PVsyst software can provide results in designing
systems add complexity. PV pumping systems are another solar pumping for the agriculture sector, and it helps us to
application of PVs, so there are some studies focused on this reach the case study results. The final goal of this study
application. The study [27] designed and optimized a solar is to incorporate economic analysis, which can address the
photovoltaic water pumping system (SPVWPS) for irrigation, limitations of previous studies on this topic. Net Present
with key results demonstrating that the system, operating at a Value (NPV), the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF), and Internal
150 tilt angle, efficiently met 92.93% of irrigation demand, Rate of Return (IRR) are presented in economic analysis,
reduced utility bills by as much as 56.41%, and received which makes this study more comprehensive. The audience
positive feedback from agriculturalists regarding efficiency of this study could be engineers and researchers, who can
and operating expenses. In [28], authors created a detailed collaborate to enhance society, research centers, and projects.
approach for the ideal location and sizing of PV water To bridge these shortcomings, the present study applies
pumping systems, confirmed by a case study in remote, PVsyst modeling to a case study in Portugal, focusing not
economically challenged regions, with results showing that only on system performance but also on the socio-economic
the tool accurately matches field data and supports the devel- implications for the agriculture sector. By integrating insights
opment of sustainable water access solutions worldwide. from literature with localized simulation, the study aims to
Singh et al. [29] evaluated the effectiveness of a solar pho- enhance both the technical aspects and policy regulations.
tovoltaic water pumping system for irrigation in Madarpura, Based on results in [27], a 15◦ tilt angle is indicated
Jaipur District, Rajasthan, by contrasting real field data with to enhance irrigation efficiency in a climate, which this
PVsyst software simulations, uncovering notable differences present research provides a comparable model in the Coimbra
with a 34.33% efficiency against 55% in simulation, and an simulation. While Singh et al. [29] explored 34.33% real-
actual water output of 2.24 m3 /kWh versus 3.56 m3 /kWh in world efficiency versus 55% in simulation, this current
PVsyst forecasts. Solar-based pumping systems introduced study achieved 48.3% system efficiency, suggesting that
challenges such as optimizing system designs for various site-specific design and accurate configuration can reduce
locations, ensuring that simulation tools align accurately this discrepancy.
with actual performance, and achieving consistent irrigation
results, especially in areas with less sunlight. Reference [86] II. STRATEGY
discussed that food availability and agricultural resiliency In this study, the authors use a strategy to assess valuable
can be greatly increased by integrating sustainable farming aspects, critique each part, identify gaps, and provide insights.
methods and developments in technology; however, the main Thus, the roadmap defined in Figure 1 helps researchers
industry limitations are the high costs for implementation better understand this study. This project offers a systematic
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FIGURE 2. Fossil fuel consumption in TWh between 2015-2023.

According to studies in energy infrastructure that are

mentioned in Table 1, energy infrastructure can play a
critical role in addressing EP by ensuring equitable access
FIGURE 1. Comprehensive energy poverty strategy analysis. to reliable, affordable energy sources, which is essential for
socioeconomic development. In regions with underdeveloped
infrastructure, limited access to energy perpetuates poverty,
approach for pinpointing deficiencies and evaluating impor- highlighting the need for geographically sensitive, inclusive
tant elements, promoting a better comprehension of the topic. infrastructure improvements that can bridge energy gaps and
Its insights and evaluations support researchers in advancing support local resilience.
the field and addressing outstanding issues. Furthermore, this
study employs key terms such as EP, PV, RESs, sustainable A. RESS SOLUTIONS FOR EP
goals, agricultural industry, and solar pumping.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
study underscores the enormous impact of humanity’s
III. ENERGY POVERTY actions on global warming and environmental degradation,
This study evaluates EP, particularly in Portugal’s agricultural emphasizing the importance of taking effective measures
sector, by examining its global definition, contributing to reduce these threats [38]. RE technologies can be a
factors, challenges, the role of renewables and innovations, solution to overcome these threats. By replacing fossil fuels,
mitigation efforts, policies, and EP indexes. For a deeper these technologies reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions,
understanding of EP in developing countries, it is necessary lower energy costs, improve energy security, and promote
to raise awareness about the difficulties in defining consistent sustainable development. Here’s a breakdown of the role of
definitions of energy access, particularly given the lack renewables in sectors. The study [39] provided a renewable
of agreement regarding how to approach basic electricity energy source for mobile devices on an environmentally
services [31], [32]. EP refers to a lack of affordable, reliable, friendly vessel, capable of generating electricity, hydrogen,
and clean energy services, which stifles economic growth and and desalinated water to address immediate requirements
living standards, especially in underserved areas. According during natural disasters. It demonstrated the ability to
to [33], between 2015 and 2023, fossil fuel consumption power vehicles, deliver fresh water, and eliminate 43,543
generally trended upward, reaching its highest point in kg of greenhouse gas emissions, with an ongoing financial
2023 at 140,230.67 TWh. The COVID-19 pandemic’s impact gain of $47,241.36. According to [40], combining China’s
on the global energy demand caused a reduction in 2020, but electricity and carbon markets lowers costs and greenhouse
demand swiftly increased in the period that followed. Despite gases, improves community welfare, and increases renew-
continuous RES attempts, these data point to a persistent able energy benefits, while optimized carbon allowances
worldwide dependency on fossil fuels. Growing fossil fuel for coal-fired facilities raise profits. The research [41]
consumption raises concerns about EP by highlighting the assessed carbon reduction pathways for the United States,
difficulties faced by emerging nations’ shift to green energies. China, Japan, Germany, and India by demonstrating two
High reliance on fossil fuels may also hinder progress in integrated renewable electricity scenarios to achieve 100%
alleviating the EP, as it maintains cost volatility and poses sus- renewable and nuclear power by 2030 and 2050, resulting
tainability issues for long-term access to affordable energy. in significant emissions reductions up to 90.63% for India
Figure 2 displays fossil fuel consumption between 2015- by 2030 and providing insights into sustainable energy
2023. Although Figure 2 displays fossil fuel consumption, policies. Franke et al. [42] established the global potential
the point could be that each sector can be influenced in this for ground-mounted PV and onshore/offshore wind on a
area, and the agriculture sector, in which many machines that thorough 6.5 km grid, discovering that ground-mounted PV
run with diesel generators release emission, EP in this sector alone could have a capacity of 450 TW, generating 560,000
would be a challenge that is necessary to be focused on one TWh at a cost of less than 20 e/MWh—more than doubling
engineer, and researchers. the anticipated 2050 global electrical power supply—and

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TABLE 1. Some research on energy infrastructure.

offers valuable insights for the electricity transition analysis. the 1960s, making shipping essential to the economies
In [43], the writers found that implementing rooftop solar of the world [51]. Because of dependency on HFO, this
PV systems under Ghana’s net energy metering program sector has a huge effect on global trade and economic
is both technically and financially viable for hospitals, development, particularly in many nations. Switching to
as demonstrated by the case of Sunyani Teaching Hospital. green fuels, increasing energy accessibility and cost, and
Solar PV can significantly reduce electricity costs, achieve a following sustainable goals are all necessary for preventing
4-year payback period, and decrease annual greenhouse gas EP. In this perspective, combating EP entails switching to
emissions by over 8 million kg while delivering substantial more sustainable fuels and boosting efficiency to lower
returns, especially when carbon allowances are factored in. expenses and the impact on the environment, causing
Other renewables can also be used in power generation energy to be more widely available and reasonably priced.
units, depending on the geographical site and investment in With cold ironing (CI) as a primary emphasis for future
each nation. These studies indicate that directed renewable development, [52] indicated a notable increase in research on
energy investments, tailored to geographic and economic sustainable maritime transportation, highlighting important
conditions, can address EP by providing reliable, low-cost, topics including data security, climate-specific trajectory
and feasible power, particularly to essential services and prediction, intelligent shipping technology, and green port
vulnerable communities, thereby enhancing adaptability and strategies. So, addressing EP is crucial because CI is a
reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Hydropower is another key focus for future development in sustainable maritime
green energy source that can help EP in society [50]. Its transport. This is because it guarantees lower-income and
execution, however, necessitates giving considerable thought developing regions equitable access to green port infras-
to environmental effects, including disturbances to aquatic tructure and sustainable technologies like CI. Moreover,
ecosystems and water rights. Furthermore, particularly in RESs [53] would be important to move toward green ports,
low-income communities, large initial investments may while geographical site and investment can be two important
present financial difficulties. challenges. Another sector can be public transportation, like
electric buses. The adoption and use of electric buses in
B. BUILDING India’s public transportation system are greatly impacted by
EP in buildings would be critical to assess because it infrastructure impediments [53]. By decreasing reliance on
affects occupants’ health, well-being, and productivity by fossil fuels, lowering transportation costs, and generating
limiting access to adequate heating, cooling, and electricity. more predictable and efficient energy demand in the network,
Addressing EP also promotes social equity and supports access to electric transportation, such as electric buses,
climate goals by reducing reliance on inefficient, high- can help reduce EP and assist marginalized populations,
emission energy sources. Table 2 displays EP research. and move toward sustainable cities. Electric automobiles
According to the previous EP research, the EP is and electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs) would also
linked to households, as inadequate housing often leads be beneficial. With convenient charging accessibility and
to higher energy consumption and poor thermal comfort. extensive distribution, electric vehicles (EVs) and EVCSs
Unsuitable insulation influences EP in low-income com- work together to fight EP by giving communities with
munities. By offering reasonably priced, environmentally limited resources access to reasonably priced, eco-friendly
friendly heating and power, RESs can dramatically lower alternatives to public transportation. Another sector is the
EP. In rural locations, expensive fuels can be replaced with railway sector. Aguado et al. [55] focused on a high-speed
PV and biomass stoves. Power expenses are decreased with railway line in Spain, where integrating RESs with hybrid
intelligent heating systems, along with insulation. batteries into railway electric energy systems can lead to
significant energy and financial savings. In Poland green-
C. TRANSPORT SECTOR railway initiative aims to enhance the use of clean energies
Due to its inexpensive price and infrastructure, heavy fuel in the transport industry in [56]. References [56], [57], [58],
oil (HFO) has been the main energy transporter since and [59] concentrated on green airports, but it is important

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TABLE 2. Energy poverty research.

to consider the challenges in dealing with EP in airports and of policy initiatives, technological advancements, financial
the railway. Significant expenditure on green technologies is techniques, and stakeholder participation. According to [67],
a challenge in the sector. China’s current feed-in tariff (FIT) mechanism for PV energy
is often inadequate, and adjustments, such as higher tradable
D. AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY green certificates (TGC) and carbon prices, as well as
Rani et al. [60] examined that clean energies, particularly encouraging innovation, are necessary to enhance solar PV
solar and geothermal energy, offered long-term solutions for competitiveness while achieving grid parity. In [68], the
various food-producing applications, reducing dependence authors found that FITs substantially increase investments in
on fossil fuels and enhancing global food safety. In [61], RES in Southeast Asia, particularly for PV, with a greater
the authors mentioned that EP reduced agricultural technical effect on younger and smaller companies than on older
efficiency (ATE) in China, particularly in the northwest, and and larger ones, implying the need for a cost-effective
highlighted the role of off-farm employment as an important FIT design to enhance investments by the private industry.
driver of this negative effect, recommending legislative Reference [69] proposed a novel IoT-based Smart TARiff
actions to reduce EP’s impact on farming to enhance food (STAR) for calculating FIT in RESs, which enhances the
security and environmental sustainability. Reference [62] tariff scheme’s effectiveness and precision, resulting in a
explored that Rural EP Alleviation (REPA) in China has threefold increase in energy production over traditional
changed agricultural carbon emissions (ACE) while focusing systems and high accuracy in evaluating system efficiency.
on low-carbon crops and EP reduction. Reference [63] To address the social and behavioral factors in the adoption
examined that EP in Africa leads to a reduction in agricul- of solar-based irrigation systems, especially in regions like
tural production, and environmental degradation also has a Portugal, it is essential to consider barriers such as farmer
negative impact. The study emphasized the importance of awareness and technical skill gaps. Many farmers may be
targeted actions to improve both issues. According to [64], unaware of the benefits and long-term savings of solar
Agri-PV models in Portugal are economically viable and generation systems. Some feasible policies are presented in
provide more benefits than a standalone agricultural or PV Figure 4. To promote PV-powered pumping systems as an
structure, especially in a spaced layout. Yadav et al. [65] environmentally conscious approach to EP and agricultural
discovered that a solar-powered IoT-based irrigation system growth in Portugal, education initiatives and awareness
in India successfully combats crop failure by optimizing activities can overcome knowledge shortages.
water consumption based on soil moisture levels, displaying In [70] authors concluded that, in most scenarios, the
outstanding productivity and flexibility. In [66], the authors existing block tariff structure is more economically advan-
found that a water-pumping photovoltaic system (WPPVS) tageous than the proposed time-of-use (ToU) framework
with vibration avoidance in Egypt’s Farafra Oasis improves for net metering (NM) in Ghana’s grid-tied PV systems.
water efficiency by reducing water loss by 45% and Nevertheless, factors such as increased daytime consumption,
optimizing irrigation, demonstrating cost-effectiveness and rising power tariffs, and proper alignment with RESs may
feasibility for tomato crops at various dynamic levels. Table 3 make ToU strategies more appealing in the years to come.
summarizes recent studies in the agriculture sector and their According to [71], PV generation systems in Africa generate
relation to the aspect of EP. Figure 3 illustrates the four surplus energy between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., with hourly
industries impacted by EP. values ranging from 0.37 kWh to 1.55 kWh, accounting
for 29.6% to 56.3% of the households’ monthly PV energy
E. POLICY generation, highlighting the potential for using this excess
A comprehensive policy strategy must be implemented to energy if NM method were available. Pramadya and Kim
address EP in various areas, including generation, residential in [72] understood that the existing NM arrangement in
transportation, and agribusiness. EP is often defined as a Indonesia makes rooftop PV systems financially unfeasible
lack of access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy due to high investment costs and low power prices; however,
services, and addressing this issue requires an intersection incorporating a 20% setup reward with a 40% increase in
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FIGURE 3. Energy poverty in four sectors.

TABLE 3. Summary of key studies on the impact of energy poverty and renewable energy solutions on agricultural productivity and sustainability.

NM rates, along with a GPS-based promotion, could enhance international partnership among universities, providing sum-
revenue and encourage greater implementation. mer programs for schools to collaborate with researchers.
Tax credits can encourage the development of RESs for There are some indices for EP, like the EP-index (EPI)
industries by reducing initial costs and enhancing financial [73], the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI)
returns, making them more attractive to shareholders. Tax [74], the energy transition index (ETI) [75], [76], and the
rebates can serve as an economic incentive for the trans- energy transition progress index (ETPI) [77]. Table 4 presents
portation industry to expedite the transition from outdated descriptions of indicators and their importance in EP. Feasible
vehicles to EVs and modern RESs, promoting sustainable policies are recommended in Figure 4. The policy strategies
development goals (SDGs). Banks or municipalities can and indices discussed above (e.g., FIT reforms, financial
provide green loans for large-scale projects and low-interest incentives) provide an important foundation for designing
loans for off-grid projects in transitioning to environmentally solar-powered irrigation systems that are both technically and
friendly energy sources, promoting the acceptance of green socially feasible. In Portugal, these considerations guide the
energy, and improving electricity access in disadvantaged system configuration modeled in PVsyst, as the case study
regions. Another helpful solution would be a collaborative aims to evaluate not only performance but also the economic

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FIGURE 4. Feasible policies.

TABLE 4. Some important indexes in EP.

TABLE 5. Policy matrix for energy poverty in agriculture. shading losses on a tilted plane with a 16◦ inclination and
0◦ azimuth orientation. Optimizing the tilt and azimuth of
solar panels according to this shading data can significantly
reduce shading losses, especially during high-loss times. This
approach will be assessed in future work to maximize the
efficiency of solar energy generation throughout the year.
On the other hand, Table 8 shows energy production and
and institutional viability of solar irrigation in agriculture. losses in a solar PV system. Starting with a global horizontal
Table 5 presents a policy evaluation matrix assessing EP in irradiation of 1615 kWh/m2 , the system achieves 17772 kWh
the agriculture sector. of usable energy after losses from various factors, including
near-shading, temperature, and module mismatch. The pump
IV. CASE STUDY efficiency is 44.7%, meeting 94.3% of the user’s water
PV-based irrigation systems provide a sustainable agricultural needs. Furthermore, Table 9 provides seasonal fluctuations
approach in Coimbra, Portugal. By combining a green energy in solar energy availability, with maximum output like
resource with water pumping. This structure can minimize July generating more energy and meeting water demands
their dependency on fossil fuels, resulting in less expensive without shortages, while in winter, facing water insufficiency.
maintenance and fewer ecological consequences. In this Figure 8 illustrates the system’s annual water production
section, authors will explore the performance and feasibility at 13,781 m3 , falling short of the total water needs of
of solar-powered pumps in Portugal’s agricultural sector 14,600 m3 , with a missing water rate of 5.6%. System
using PVsyst software. The study will assess system design, efficiency is 48.3%, while pump efficiency is lower at 44.7%,
efficiency, and economic viability under local conditions, with significant unused energy accumulating due to tank
providing valuable insights for future adoption across similar overflows. Seasonal fluctuation in the performance ratio
climates in Europe. Depending on Tables 6 and 7, simulations (PR) led them to peak in high solar irradiation periods and
of solar pumping are done in PVsyst for Coimbra city in fall throughout the winter. The large percentage of wasted
Portugal. Figure 5 displays the framework of the PV-powered PV power might be decreased through improving battery
pumping system in this work. capacity or modifying the schedule of water usage.
Figure 6 illustrates the sun’s position throughout the year,
indicating the sun’s height and azimuth angles for various V. DISCUSSION & FUTURE DIRECTION
times and dates. The plot shows shading loss percentages The applied RESs for sustainability of both economic and
with contour lines representing 1%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 40% environmental sectors, as well as their significant importance

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FIGURE 5. Solar-powered pumping system scheme.

TABLE 6. Input parameters for simulation.

TABLE 7. Simulation input data.

to address EP, are emphasized with this research. The thermal efficiency and decrease energy consumption to
transition from fossil fuels to renewables can decrease GHG alleviate EP. Solar-powered irrigation systems and Agri-PV
emissions, drive down energy prices, and improve access setups in agriculture are expected to improve productivity
to energy, especially for vulnerable communities. In the and resource efficiency while also reducing fossil fuel
construction sector, this is defined using energy-efficient dependence. A Few determinants such as geography, socio-
designs and materials like recycled insulation to increase economy, economy, environment, and technology, shape

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TABLE 8. Solar pump performance.

farmers and businesses to install PV systems across different

sectors, substituting conventional energy sources which emit
greenhouse gases. Finally, the economic analysis is explained
in section six, the main results are discussed over the
economic analysis of the solar-powered pumping system that
has a very good financial perspective, which represents a Net
Present Value (NPV) of around e22,469.73 and an Internal
Rate of Return (IRR) of 74.24% Electricity savings for one
year are e2,723.97, and net cash flow is e2,652.51 per year.
The system has a 20-year life, and the payback indicates
solid profit margins and electricity savings. The state-of-
FIGURE 6. The sun path diagram shows solar radiation and shading
losses. the-art solar-powered pumping system is a prudent financial
investment that provides positive returns and savings.
Reference [82] presents a comprehensive design for PV
the functioning of EP and require tailored solutions for generation systems as an industrial project, so, for future
addressing it through RESs. It’s critical to have policy study, other aspects mentioned in this study can be used
interventions and community engagement processes in place to improve solar pumping in the agriculture sector to reach
to ensure that RES adoption meets local needs and sustain- comprehensive insights. Farmers may be discouraged from
ability goals. By putting these solutions into practice, you participating in a solar-powered pumping system created
not only combat EP but also further the global agenda to with PVsyst due to several practical adoption issues, such
reduce environmental degradation and build a more resilient as expensive start-up costs. Problems with maintenance, such
economy. Additionally, this research offers valuable analysis as the requirement for specialist personnel and components,
of solar pumping in the agricultural industry, including can raise operating expenses and downtime. Furthermore,
practical applications of solar irrigation systems. Farmers can irregular pumping efficiency due to fluctuations in PV supply
harvest more crops, increasing income and may also be able may necessitate the use of energy storage devices or backup
to shift to higher-value crops, increasing income earnings, systems. Lastly, a lack of knowledge, technical know-how,
and improving livelihoods. It also provides a sustainable and funding to switch to solar-powered systems are obstacles
sector which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals to farmer acceptance. A further challenge that may arise
(SDGs) as PV technology is used. It further encourages is motivating farmers; however, our article offers some

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TABLE 9. Balances and main results.

TABLE 10. Comparison in previous research.

workable rules that may be a useful way to transition to a savings of =C2,723.97 by grid electricity (17,772 kWh/year
sustainable industry. Table 10 provides a structured summary at =C0.153281/kWh). Assuming an 8% discount rate over
of different studies. 20 years, the system achieves an NPV of approximately
The results of this case study show that while the =C22,469.73 calculated in (1). The annual Net Cash Flow is

solar-powered pumping system can meet 94.3% of the water =C2,652.51 by using (2), the DCF is calculated by (3), which

needs, there is still an issue of efficiency, evident in 5.6% is =C32,370.81.

of unmet water needs and energy loss due to low pump 20  
efficiency, and seasonal changes. Such innovations can help X NetCashFlowt
NPV = − CAPEX (1)
reduce the gaps between demand and supply in overcast (1 + r)t
1
months and ensure a stable energy source due to the inter-
mittency of solar production. Further investigations should where:
embrace innovations such as AI-driven energy management
NetCashFlow = Saving − OPEX (2)
systems for real-time optimization while also incorporating
20 
sustainable materials to boost pump and system efficiency.

X 2652.52
Moreover, including subsidizing high-efficiency components DCF = (3)
(1 + r)t
in policies, capacity-building programs for farmers, and 1

the localization of renewable energy solutions should be The IRR is calculated by equation (4), which is approxi-
promoted to ensure energy access and agricultural resilience mately 74.24%.
in regions with similar climatic conditions. Financial incen-
20  
tives, such as subsidies or tax credits, can be offered by X NetCashFlowt
such policies to facilitate the adoption of high-efficiency NPV = −CAPEX = 0 (4)
(1 + IRR)t
1
PV components and hybrid storage systems and alleviate
initial investment obstacles. Further, on a larger scale, farmer The PV-powered pumping system is found to offer a very
training programs on energy management, maintenance, etc., attractive economic perspective. The NPV comes out to
can help improve the performance of systems and thus sustain approximately =C22,469.73 with a significant 20-year IRR of
renewable energy solutions in agriculture in the long term. 74.24%. In addition, the annual net cash flow accounts for
=C2,652.51 for the system, reinforcing the project’s suitable
VI. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS financial viability. Although the present study focused on
Based on the simulation and results, the solar-powered energy poverty in the agricultural sector, it has certain limita-
pumping system produces 17,772 kWh annually after losses, tions, such as the lack of a mathematical approach in PVsyst
assuming a local electricity rate of =C0.153281 per kWh in simulations, which limited the flexibility of evaluation
Portugal [78]. The total equipment price in this study is analyses, including optimization techniques. To address the
shown in Tables 6 and 7 and is estimated to be around limitation of PVsyst regarding sensitivity analysis, manually
3,923 euros. The price estimation is based on average values, conducted a sensitivity analysis by different parameters
calculated in [79], and presents a broad overview of the cost such as irradiance (±20%), pump efficiency (±20%), and
required for such a system to operate. Economic analysis discount rate (5–12%). This external analysis evaluated how
based on [80] and [81]. The solar-powered pumping system fluctuations in these variables impact the NPV and IRR.
incurs a CAPEX of =C3,573, including equipment costs The result, as demonstrated in Figure 7, indicates that the
(=C2,923) and installation expenses (=C600). OPEX is nearly system remains economically viable under a wide range of
=C70.46 per year, while the system generates annual electricity conditions, confirming the robustness of our findings.

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A. Zabihi et al.: Solar-Powered Pumping for Alleviating Energy Poverty: Sustainable Solutions

FIGURE 7. Sensitive analysis.

FIGURE 8. PVSyst Results: Annual water production, energy efficiency, and performance ratio analysis for
the solar pumping system.

VII. CONCLUSION a favorable economic prospective, conferring an NPV of

This study presents the importance of RES in fighting approximately =C22,469.73 and an IRR of 74.24%. Saved
EP, as well as promoting a sustainable future in different =C2,723.97 annually and results in =C2,652.51 annual net cash

sectors. Transitioning from fossil fuels to RESs has impor- flow, making it highly profitable over 20 years. Moreover,
tant environmental and economic benefits, including lower this study contributes to an understanding of the advantages
CO2 emissions. The general energy transition unfolds at of solar irrigation in agriculture by providing evidence that
very different speeds and levels of ambition, matched by demonstrates the increased yields, crop diversification, and a
regionally and economically tailored strategies, to maximize shift to cleaner and sustainable energy pathways, which are
the efficiency of the turnaround in renewable energies. The in line with the sustainable goals for farmers and society.
solar-based pumping framework provides 94.3% of water
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[86] Ö. Şimşek, ‘‘Harvesting sustainability: Innovations and practices in GAURI KALNOOR received the B.E. and M.Tech.
modern agriculture,’’ Green Technol. Sustainability, vol. 3, no. 3, Jul. 2025, degrees in computer science and engineering and
Art. no. 100192. the Ph.D. degree in computer science and engi-
[87] L. N. Yogi, T. Thalal, and S. Bhandari, ‘‘The role of agriculture in neering from Visvesvaraya Technological Uni-
Nepal’s economic development: Challenges, opportunities, and pathways versity, Belagavi,, in 2008, 2010, and 2022,
for modernization,’’ Heliyon, vol. 11, no. 2, Jan. 2025, Art. no. e41860. respectively. Since 2012, she has been an Assistant
[88] N. Aijaz, H. Lan, T. Raza, M. Yaqub, R. Iqbal, and M. S. Pathan, Professor with the Computer Science and Engi-
‘‘Artificial intelligence in agriculture: Advancing crop productivity and
neering Department, in various engineering col-
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leges and universities. She is currently an Assistant
[89] P. Das, ‘‘Investigation of CO2 production from agriculture and food
Professor-Senior Scale with Manipal Institute of
industries, potential mitigating through solar photovoltaic pumping system
and renewable energy systems: Environmental impact assessment—A Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Bengaluru. She is the
review,’’ Food Humanity, vol. 4, May 2025, Art. no. 100523. author of three books and more than 50 articles. Her research interests include
[90] A. Zabihi, M. Parhamfar, and M. Khodadadi, ‘‘Strengthening resilience: the Internet of Things, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and network
A brief review of cybersecurity challenges in IoT-driven smart grids,’’ security. She was a recipient of the Young Fellow Award in the International
J. Mod. Technol., vol. 1, no. 2, pp. 106–120, Dec. 2024. Award Conference on Multi-Disciplinary Research and Application in 2019.
She received best paper awards in the IEEE International Conferences in
2016 and 2020. She is an Editor of the International Journal of Algorithms
Design and Analysis and holds three patents.
ALIREZA ZABIHI received the B.Sc. and M.Sc.
degrees in electrical engineering from Islamic
Azad University, Najafabad, Isfahan, Iran. He is
currently pursuing the Ph.D. degree in electri-
cal engineering and intelligent systems with the
University of Coimbra, Portugal. His research
interests include machine learning, power systems, ISKENDER AKKURT received the Ph.D. degree
renewable energy sources, zero energy buildings, from the University of Glasgow, in 1998. He is
and electric vehicles (EVs). currently a Professor with the Faculty of Engi-
neering and Natural Sciences, Department of
Physics, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta,
Türkiye. He has published more than 160 articles
in reputed international journals, presented more
TRIPURA PIDIKITI (Senior Member, IEEE) than 50 articles at international scientific meetings
received the B.Tech. degree in electrical and and published in proceedings and author for two
electronics engineering from S. V. University, books.
and the M.Tech. degree in power electronics
and electric drives and the Ph.D. degree in
electrical engineering from JNTUK, Kakinada,
in 2020. She is currently an Associate Professor
with the Department of Electrical and Electronics
Engineering, R. V. R. and J. C. College of
Engineering, Guntur, India. Her research interests V. B. MURALI KRISHNA received the Ph.D.
include control and estimation of induction motor drives, renewable energy degree in electrical engineering from the Central
integration to the grid, and the IoT applications. She is an Active Member University of Karnataka. He is currently associated
of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society (IES), where she serves on the with the National Institute of Technology Andhra
Administrative Committee (AdCom). She has organized and participated Pradesh, India, as a Teaching Faculty Member.
in various national and international conferences and workshops and has His research interests include renewable energy
published papers in leading journals and conferences systems, distribution power generation, electric
machines, smart and micro grids, power and
energy, electric vehicle technologies, adaptive
technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT), control
and optimization of systems, electronic devices, applied mathematics, data
analysis and machine learning, and artificial intelligence. He received the
L. N. SASTRY VARANASI received the B.Tech. Best Paper Award three times for his research paper presentations in
degree in electrical and electronics engineering international conferences. His Ph.D. thesis received the Best Thesis Pre-
and the M.Tech. degree in instrumentation and sentation Award from the IEEE-Bangalore Section Sponsored Conference.
control systems, and the Ph.D. degree from the He organized three-national (India) conferences. He served as the Session
National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, Chair for three-international conferences 2023–2024. Besides to his regular
focusing on innovative energy management solu- academics and research activities, he is serving as following editorial roles,
tions, particularly in non-intrusive load monitoring such as an Associate Editor for e-Prime-Advances in Electrical Engineering,
(NILM) for smart buildings. He is a dynamic Electronics and Energy (Online ISSN: 2772-6711); the Topical Editor for
academic professional with a strong foundation Contemporary Mathematics (Online ISSN: 2705-1056); the Executive Guest
in electrical engineering and artificial intelligence. Editor for Measurement: Sensors (ISSN: 2665-9174); the Lead Guest Editor
His academic journey has been distinguished by numerous contributions to for Universal Journal of Green Chemistry (Online ISSN: 2972-4651); the
the field, including several journal publications and patents related to energy Lead Guest Editor for Contemporary Mathematics; an Editorial Member
management and smart technologies. His research interests include the IoT, and the Commissioning Editor for Discover Energy (ISSN: 2730-7719); and
machine learning, and energy management, with a focus on developing an ECAB Member for Measurement: Sensors and Measurement (Online
smart metering and energy optimization solutions. He has also been actively ISSN: 1873-412X). He is serving as an active reviewer for more than
involved in funded projects aimed at creating practical and innovative 25 international journals and five series of international conferences and few
applications for smart technologies, demonstrating his commitment to honored with reviewer of excellence award certifications.
bridging academic research and real-world impact.

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