pump system: PS2-1800 C-SJ30-1
flow rate: 300 m³/day
total dynamic head (TDH): 6 m
solar generator: 2.2 kWp
Untersiggenthal
Switzerland
Amena
April 2021
Rice field Unterau "WUGU"
Ecological rice cultivation with solar-powered irrigation
Wet rice - ecological cultivation and an enrichment of biodiversity.
Since 2020, the wet rice variety "Loto" has been cultivated here. No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used. Irrigation of the field serves as a source of nutrients for the rice plants as well as a heat reservoir. In addition, most weeds are effectively suppressed. These circumstances benefit biodiversity and thus the climate. The shallow water areas of the rice field are optimal habitat for many insects and amphibians! A win-win situation for climate - nature and people.
2020 was the first year of cultivation on the Unterau field - about 0.4 hectares (4'000 m2). This year it goes into the next round. At the end of November, after refinement (drying, dehusking, polishing and packing), the second harvest will be sold. We are already looking forward to it!
Solar-powered irrigation
In the second year of rice cultivation, the irrigation is powered by a solar-powered water pump. The solar pump is powered directly from the electricity of the solar generator, no battery storage is available or a detour via the public power grid is necessary. The solar pump can be operated completely autonomously.
Since this is a pilot project, an additional grid connection from the utility company serves as a backup. This ensures that the solar pump can also be operated at night if required.
