Energy Use/Costs for Pumping

The imperative for improved water use efficiency in California will probably result in a significant amount of acreage being converted from surface irrigation systems to pressurized systems (sprinkler or micro). This Advisory explains how to estimate both energy requirements and costs for irrigation pumping. Sections are provided for both electric and diesel power. There is a short discussion on options for reducing energy use. Pump tests for determining pumping plant efficiency are explained. Definitions for some commonly used terms are provided. Immediately following is an energy use/costs calculator

IMPORTANT!! If you are one of those who will convert from a surface irrigation system to a pressurized system, make sure that your system designer is considering energy costs. This means that he is considering both the capital costs of the system as well as the annual operational costs.