ABSTRACT
The sun has always been treated reverentially in India and was recognized as the source of life in ancient literature. The utilization of solar energy for solar thermal applications is well known and widespread. Sir J. C. Bose had contemplated a wider usage for solar energy, since it is available in abundance throughout the country. A solar photovoltaic (SPV) system comprises a PV array for converting the solar energy into the required voltage and current to run the DC/AC appliances by means of appropriate storage and interfacing devices. Since most PV systems are installed in remote areas, the requirement for maintenance-free or low-maintenance batteries is obvious. The suitability of PV in different applications has to be established by considering socio-economic, techno-economic, pollution cost, optimum design, load profile of specific application and environmental factors. PV water pumps utilize DC or AC pumps to lift water from wells, and streams at different depths.
