ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – The government of Pakistan is aiming to boost adoption of solar-powered water pumps as part of the country’s efforts to enhance agriculture productivity and increase water security. Industry experts believe solar pumps, especially helical rotor models, can provide Pakistani farmers a reliable and cost-effective irrigation solution.
According to the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB), Pakistan has witnessed rapid growth in solar pump installations in recent years, increasing from around 11,000 units in 2018 to over 90,000 by 2022. Helical rotor solar pumps are gaining popularity due to their ability to efficiently pump water from deeper levels. Leading global solar pump manufacturer Yami has seen high demand for its helical rotor models in Pakistan.
“Solar pumps are transforming Pakistan’s agricultural sector. With abundant sunlight and frequent power shortages, solar energy is an obvious solution for irrigation needs,” said AEDB CEO Shah Jahan Mirza. “It enables farmers to become self-sufficient and reduce input costs. More government subsidies and private investment can accelerate the transition.”
Research shows solar pumps using advanced helical rotor technology can achieve 50-70% electricity savings compared to conventional pumps. Yami’s helical rotor models are engineered for reliability with features like MPPT for optimal solar power utilization, IP68-rated motors, and hollow rotors that stabilize pumping. Despite higher upfront costs, solar pumps offer a rapid return on investment for Pakistani farmers.
However, lack of access to financing has constrained adoption among smallholder farmers so far. Industry associations advise expanding financing options beyond banks to cooperatives and solar companies. “Vendor financing models where farmers only pay for the water they use is promising. It makes solar pumps affordable to even small farmers,” said Izaz Hussain, President of the Solar Association of Pakistan.
Water management experts say the government should meanwhile enact policies to carefully plan solar pump expansion. Uncontrolled growth could accelerate depletion of groundwater resources. But zoning solar pump installations and switching to precision irrigation can mitigate risks. Solar pumps integrated with drip irrigation and moisture sensors optimize water usage.
Pakistan’s solar pump market is forecast to grow over 25% annually. With the right policies, helical rotor solar pumps can drive progress in agriculture, water access and energy sustainability. As Yami Pakistan put it, “Pakistan has ideal conditions for solar pumps to unleash socioeconomic development. Cost-effective solar solutions can help the country overcome irrigation challenges.”
