Research on solar pumping and irrigation

The Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy engaged the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) to research the potential for solar systems to replace, or be used as a complementary system for, diesel-powered irrigation and water pumping.

USQ's research can help you decide whether or not solar irrigation is for you. The 3 reports:

• identify and discuss the technology of solar power and solar pumping systems
• outline incentive and funding opportunities for solar pumping systems
• review Queensland agribusinesses’ irrigation systems and efficiencies.

Feasibility of solar irrigation reports

• Report 1 – Solar Power and Solar Irrigation Systems (PDF, 1.3MB) provides a technical summary of solar power and solar power irrigation systems in Queensland.
• Report 2 – Solar Irrigation Incentives, Funding and Financing Opportunities and Programs (PDF, 664KB) describes incentives, funding opportunities and programs to support uptake of solar systems.
• Report 3 – Queensland Agribusiness Pumping Capacities, Irrigation and Water Requirement (PDF, 4.5MB) outlines the factors that impact the scale of and potential market opportunities for solar irrigation in Queensland.

Also consider...

• Read more about the Queensland Government’s $10 million Regional Business Support Package (PDF, 441KB).
• Learn about the Business Energy Savers Program.
• Read about the Affordable Energy Plan.