Optimizing your water system involves choosing the right pump for your needs and today, solar and electric pumps dominate the field. Both have unique advantages and drawbacks depending on factors like location, water source, electricity access, and budget. This guide explores Solar Vs Electric Pumps operation, specifications and performance, cost, sizing guidelines, uses, buying tips.
Solar Vs Electric Pumps: Best Water Pump Supplier in Kenya
At Aqua Hub LTD we have the best solar pumps, electric, diesel and petrol pumps. Our water pumps are affordable and best suited for irrigation and home water supply. Are you in need of constant water access in your farm or domestic applications? If yes, try our Solar Pumps vs Electric Pumps guide to know which pump is best for you.
If you need help or consultation; Call 0790719020
Solar vs Electric Pumps
Solar pumps harness energy from the sun and convert it into mechanical or electrical power. Electric pumps draw power from the grid or generator, offering consistent performance regardless of weather. Whether you’re irrigating fields or ensuring reliable domestic water supply, understanding the difference helps you make an informed decision.
Why You Need a Water Pump
Water Pumps are essential for.
- Agricultural irrigation: ensuring uniform water distribution across fields
- Livestock watering: reliable water supply for animals
- Domestic water systems: water delivery from wells, boreholes, or storage tanks
- Remote/off-grid setups: water supply in areas without access to grid electricity
- Aquaculture & ponds: ensuring water aeration and circulation
How Solar Pumps Work
Basic Operation
- A solar pump system comprises solar panels (PV), a controller, and the pump:
- PV Panels convert sunlight into DC electricity.
- A controller optimizes voltage/current; some include MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) to increase efficiency.
- The pump converts electricity into mechanical energy for fluid movement.
Types of Solar Pumps
- Surface pumps: mounted above ground, ideal for shallow wells, ponds, or tanks.
- Submersible pumps: installed below water level; ideal for boreholes or deep wells.
Features
- MPPT controllers: improve performance by 10–30%.
- Dry-run protection: safeguards against damage when water is unavailable.
- DC efficiency: no conversion loss between PV and pump.
- No batteries needed (optional): direct-drive systems work well during daylight.
How Electric Pumps Work
Basic Operation
Electric pumps consist of a motor (AC or DC) connected to a water-moving mechanism such as:
- Centrifugal pumps (most common)
- Positive displacement pumps (rare; used in viscous fluids)
They require connection to an AC power source: grid or generator.
Types of Electric Pumps
- Surface centrifugal: best for shallow water.
- Submersible motors: used for deep wells.
- Booster pumps: increase pressure in domestic systems.
- Self-priming pumps: useful when suction involves air.
Features
- Guaranteed constant performance day and night.
- Integration into automated domestic systems: timers, pressure switches, smart controllers.
- Wide availability and standardized spare parts.
Comparing Solar Vs Electric Pumps Features
| Feature | Solar Pumps | Electric Pumps |
| Energy Source | Renewable, free sunlight | Grid or generator, may involve fuel costs |
| Operating Cost | Minimal no fuel, low maintenance | Constant electricity bills, possible generator fuel |
| Initial Cost | Higher due to PV panels & controllers | Lower hardware cost, possible installation fees |
| Reliability | Dependent on sunlight; storage adds complexity | Predictable, stable performance |
| Off-Grid Capability | Ideal for remote sites | Needs grid/generator; high generator cost |
| Scalability | Modular—add panels for expansion | Easily scalable via larger motors |
| Maintenance | Low—no moving parts in panels; occasional cleaning | Moderate—mechanical wear, electrical checks |
| Environmental Impact | Zero emissions, green energy | Emissions if using generator; grid impact |
| Automation & Control | Some controllers offer smart scheduling | Compatible with existing automation tech |
Solar Vs Electric Pumps Cost Prices
- Solar Pumps: KES 50,000 – KES 650,000 depending on size
- 1–2 HP (horsepower) solar surface pumps cost KES 20,000 to KES 150,000.
- Submersible solar pumps range KES 15,000 to KES 250,000
- Electric Pumps: KES 18,000 – KES 300,000
- 1 HP centrifugal surface pump: KES 30,000 – KES 78,000
- Borehole electric submersible pumps (2–3 HP): KES 85,000 to KES 250,000.
Solar Vs Electric Pumps Installation Cost
- Solar:
- Panels, racks, cables, foundation: KES 65,000 – KES 260,000
- Labor high sensitivity to alignment
- Potential battery backup: KES 60,000 – KES 240,000
- Electric:
- Well casing, wiring, trenching: KES 39,000 – KES 500,000
- Installation or connection: 60,000 – 150,000.
Operating Costs
- Solar:
- zero once installed. Occasional cleaning or inverter service
- Electric:
- Based on electricity rates:
- Example: 1 HP pump (~0.75 kW) for 4 h/day @ $0.10/kWh → KES 1500 per month
- Add generator fuel costs if used: KES 190 per litre diesel
- Based on electricity rates:
Solar Vs Electric Pumps: Sizing
Steps to Proper Sizing of Solar and Electric Pumps
- Calculate daily water demand
- Domestic: People × Usage (50–100 L/day)
- Livestock: Animals × Drinking Needs
- Irrigation: Area × Crop ET × Efficiency (e.g., 1 mm of water on 1 ha = 10,000 L)
- Determine hydraulic requirements
- Flow (Q) in L/min or m³/h
- Head (H) = vertical lift + losses (pipes, fittings, friction)
- Choose pump curve
- Select a pump that delivers desired Q at your H, review manufacturer graphs
- Account for derating
- Solar: panels produce slightly less than rated power—size with cushion
- Electric: ensure motor rated slightly above system needs
Specific Guidelines
- Solar: Size PV arrays ≥ 25% above pump’s max wattage
- Electric: Motor should handle peak start‑load current (service factor helps)
Solar Vs Electric Pumps: Recommended Applications
| Application | Solar Pump | Electric Pump |
| Remote/Borehole Watering | Ideal off-grid | Needs generator |
| Irrigation in Sunny Regions | Cost-efficient | Reliable |
| Daily Domestic Supply | Backup needed | 24/7 supply |
| Emergency / Backup Supply | Clean & green | Fast labelling |
| Large-scale fields/ high head | High power systems available | Common and reliable |
What to Consider When Buying a Water Pump
- Water source: depth, volume, quality (muddy, chemical content)
- Daily water requirement: domestic, livestock, agricultural
- Head and flow: Hose, tank, field layout
- Sunlight availability (solar): Solar insolation levels, seasons
- Backup plans (solar): grid, battery, generator
- Pricing & incentives: Solar grants, rebates, grid tariffs
- Lifespan & warranty: Solar panels (20–25 years), pump (5–10 years)
- Spare parts/accessibility: Import ease, local support
- Automation & monitoring: Smart controllers, remote monitoring
- Durability: Corrosion resistance, submersible cable quality, pump materials
Comparison of Solar Vs Electric Pumps
Environmental Impact
Solar: zero carbon emissions on-site; long-term clean energy
Electric: low environmental impact only if using green grid otherwise emissions apply
Energy Independence
Solar: autonomy, no utility bills, resistant to grid failures
Electric: reliant on grid or fuel; easy to disrupt
Maintenance Needs
Solar: minimal involving panel cleaning, controller checks
Electric: routine motor servicing, shaft seal replacements
Reliability and Performance
Solar: daytime performance only. Battery or hybrid systems needed for nights
Electric: consistent output anytime; can pair with tank for pressured delivery
Scalability & Modularity
Solar: easy add panels to increase output
Electric: choose bigger motors, possibly bigger wiring/infrastructure
Solar Vs Electric Pumps: Preferred Choice Based on Scenario
Off‑Grid Livestock Farm
Best: Solar pump with battery backup
Minimal ongoing cost, clean, reliable water supply
City‑Grid Home in Kenya
Best: High-efficiency electric pump
Stable water supply, low upfront cost, easy repairs
Remote Irrigation Crop (Sunny Region)
Best: Standalone solar
No fuel cost, scales with needs, high uptime
Seasonal Watering Needs
Best: Hybrid solar–electric system
Electric backup for overcast rainy season; solar for dry season
Solar Vs Electric Pumps: Which is the Best Choice for Farmers?
Choose Solar Pumps if:
- You’re off‑grid or pay high electricity costs
- Sunlight is abundant
- You want long‑term savings and environmental benefits
Choose Electric Pumps if:
- You have reliable grid access
- Need water anytime, day or night
- Prioritize lower upfront costs
Example Project: Sizing a Solar Pump for a Remote Farm
- Daily water needs: 40 cattle × 30 L = 1,200 L/day
- Flow rate target: 1,200 L over 6 hours = 200 L/h ≈ 3.3 L/min
- Head: Borehole 40 m + friction losses = total 50 m
- Pump: Selecting a 300 W DC submersible pump
- Panels: 300 W × 1.3 (oversizing) = 400 Wp
- Controller: MPPT rated ≥ 400 Wp
- Result: Delivers target volume during daylight; add 12‑V battery bank for night needs
Conclusion
Solar and electric pumps both play essential roles in modern water systems. On-grid environments often favor electric pumps for their reliability and lower upfront cost. Off-grid or sunny regions typically derive more value from solar solutions, with minimal operational expense and sustainability as added benefits.
Tips for Making the Right Choice on whether to go for Solar or Electric Pumps
- Focus on your location and water demand metrics
- Prioritize reliability: consistent solar vs. grid availability
- Plan for backup: whether battery, generator, or tank storage
- Size carefully: calculate flow, head, inefficiencies
- Consider cost: analyze the cost of purchase and installation plus the return on investment
With the right information and planning, you get a pump that maximizes performance while minimizing cost whether you’re aiming for off-grid independence or consistent municipal water solutions.
