Solar water pumps are used in residential and commercial applications. They are a clean alternative to fossil-fuel-powered windmills and generators. There are two main types of solar water pumps. Surface pumps are located above ground and move water through pipes. These can move large amounts of water slowly. Surface pumps are often found on farms or large irrigation systems where water needs to be moved from lakes to fields. Submersible solar pumps are located underground, but solar panels are attached to the ground. Submersible pumps are used to move water from inside wells to the surface.
The main difference between solar pumps and conventional pumps is the power supply. Solar water pumps rely on solar panels to operate the equipment. Solar panels can be built into the device or are self-contained structures connected to the pump by wires. The solar panels then power the device, enabling it to work independently of any existing electrical system.