PROSPECT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR SYSTEMS FOR AGRICULTURAL IRRIGATION IN THE STATE OF GUANAJUATO, MEXICO

Abstract

This work analyzes the current situation of solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems for agricultural irrigation in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico, with an emphasis on their technical and economic challenges. It also describes the water resource management system in Mexico and in the state, its main uses, and the applicable regulations. Based on a summary of agricultural production statistics, Guanajuato is positioned as one of the country’s main producers, and the prospects for SPV systems for irrigation are examined. It also provides an overview of their advantages, disadvantages, and drawbacks. As a result, it identifies poor management of both water resources and SPVs for irrigation, which is the main contribution of the study, given the scarce or inaccurate information available in the literature and at different levels of government on the development, implementation, and projections of this technology in the state.