Potencial da tecnologia fotovoltaica para irrigação de unidades de produção familiar: estudo de caso para Moçambique

Abstract

Photovoltaic technology applied in water pumping systems has been implemented worldwidein recent decades, especially in remoteareas. This technology is part of the answer to problems such as global warming, lack of access to conventional grid electricity in rural areas, lack of water for human and animal consumption, higher energy costs for irrigation systems,among others. The present paper analyzes the feasibility of using solar and water resources in Mozambique in photovoltaic pumping systems for irrigation of family production units. Solar radiation data collected over a period of 5years (2006-2011) in 10 meteorological stations by the National Institute of Meteorology and data from the national management of the waters, through open wells for drinking water supply, make possible to evaluate the potential availability of sunlight and water the country. Insulation data (~ 300 hours / month), average solar radiation (4.93 kWh/m2/day) and funding sources of water showthat Mozambique has great potential for the application of PV systems for water pumping irrigation of family production units and supply other basic needs.