Wind-powered pumps

Wind power is a non-polluting renewable resource that can be harnessed where access to power lines is not practical. There are three types of wind power systems. Two use mechanical power to pump water, while the third converts wind power to electrical energy.

Mechanical - piston pump — This system converts rotary wind power to vertical motion, using a snake rod and a piston pump to lift water.

Mechanical - air lift pump — This system uses wind power to charge a compressor that pumps air to lift water.

Electrical pump — The electrical pumping system channels the energy generated directly to the water pump, and/or to a battery storage system. The system design will depend on:

your specific energy needs
whether a battery storage system is required
the amount of wind available to the site.

Batteries can account for more than 20% of the total capital investment, so they are a key factor if you're considering an electrical pumping system.

Costs

The capital cost of a wind system depends on the size and design of the system. A system with a capacity of 10 to 15 gallons per minute will cost approximately $3,000, while one that pumps 250 to 300 gallons per minute will cost between $15,000 and $20,000.

While the capital cost of a wind system may be higher than other methods of generating electricity, reduced operating costs can result in long-term cost efficiencies.

Choosing the right system

If you're considering a wind-powered system, contact different suppliers to get more information about the various options and to determine which is best for your situation.