A cost optimization of solar-powered, drip irrigation systems
Name
1013461937-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
1.63 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
da44e3ad1e7c3c2b25885fbb1ab124bb
Author(s)
Doan, David, S.B. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Advisor(s)
Amos Winter.
Date Issued
2017
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis presents a design and cost optimization for solar-powered, drip irrigation systems. Historical irradiance data and crop consumption data are considered and modelled during these design steps. A cost optimization is utilized in order to determine low-cost, optimum configuration that meets the required water consumption rate of a given crop. In this case, Jalgaon, India is used as an example to determine the configuration and cost per acre for solar-powered, drip irrigation systems for sunflowers, tomatoes, and barley. These configurations consisted of five 310 Watt solar panels coupled with a 5m³ water buffer, three 295 Watt solar panels coupled with a 5m³ water buffer, and three 320 Watt solar panels coupled with a 4m³ water buffer, respectively. These systems are projected to cost $4,600, $3,870, and $3,750, respectively. The results of this study show the value of a system optimization of solar-powered, drip irrigation systems.
Description
Thesis: S.B., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 2017.
This electronic version was submitted by the student author. The certified thesis is available in the Institute Archives and Special Collections.
Cataloged from student-submitted PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 79-81).
Subjects
Mechanical Engineering.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering
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