Performance Optimization of Solar Powered Pump for Irrigation in Tanjung Raja, Indonesia

Agriculture is one of the industries that can benefit greatly from solar energy. Most Indonesians still rely on agriculture for a living, including farmers in Muara Enim Regency, South Sumatra Province, who harvest their rainfed rice fields only 1–2 times per year. More water for irrigation, not just during the rainy season, can be used to extend harvest time, and this condition is possible if a solar-powered irrigation pump is used. This study attempts to develop a solar light tracking system to increase irradiance and produce more electricity in order to improve the performance of a solar power plant. This paper looks into the possibility of improving the Tanjung Raja Solar Power Plant. The experimental results show that the maximum power produced by a dynamic PV panel is 24.78% greater than that of a static PV panel with a water debit pump, which is 10.24% greater. Dynamic solar panels have a higher efficiency than static solar panels. However, a more in-depth economic analysis is required to validate that the dynamic PV system is more economically effective when considering how much paddy is harvested using both methods.