A Cheap and Basic Solar-Powered Smart Irrigation System Proposal for Medium and Small-Scale Farming

Abstract

Nowadays, the need for water consumption for agricultural production is increasing. Economical use of water has become mandatory both to increase agricultural product yield and to eliminate the damage caused by excessive irrigation to the soil. Preferred instead of traditional irrigation, Drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and pivot irrigation systems are now being replaced by “Smart Irrigation Systems” that save more water. In this study, a basic solar energy-supported mobile phone-controlled smart irrigation system, recommended for medium and small-scale agricultural enterprises, is proposed. In the study, the basic elements that make up the system, their approximate prices and circuit connection ways are shown. In the study, the cost, water, energy consumption, and payback periods of smart irrigation systems with traditional drip, sprinkler, and pivot irrigation methods were compared. As a result, although the initial investment cost in smart irrigation systems seems relatively high, it offers significant advantages in terms of resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. It is a fact that modern irrigation systems will make important contributions to national economies in the long term by increasing agricultural production and saving energy and water.