Foras Solar Borehole Pump System for Pivot Irrigation in Sudan – Renewable Energy Solution for Sustainable Agriculture and Water Management
- Lyn Panova
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
Location: Sudan
Year: 2017
Application: Solar Pivot Irrigation System
In 2017, Foras implemented a solar-powered pivot irrigation system in Shandi, near the Nile River in North Sudan. Designed for large-scale farming operations, this innovative project brings together renewable energy and efficient water management to support 250,000 m² of agricultural land.
The Challenge
Farmers in this remote region faced a critical need for a reliable, cost-effective irrigation solution that didn't depend on diesel fuel. Drawing water from a deep 100-meter well and distributing it evenly across a vast field presented both energy and hydraulic challenges—particularly in an area where infrastructure was limited and environmental sustainability was a priority.
Our Solution
For this project, Foras provided the 12” borehole pump model E12A/4, designed specifically for high-performance agricultural irrigation systems. The pump is equipped with four semi-axial impeller stages, delivering a steady flow rate of 270 m³/h at 9 bar pressure, while achieving an excellent hydraulic efficiency of 79%.
A key advantage of the Foras E12A/4 lies in its construction. The impellers, diffusers, and bearing bushings are manufactured from specialized, wear-resistant materials, allowing the pump to operate reliably even in environments with high sand content. This was clearly demonstrated during the start-up phase, where the pumped water appeared yellow due to heavy sand presence—yet the pump maintained stable performance without degradation.
This durability makes the E12A/4 an ideal solution for deep well applications in sandy or abrasive water conditions, ensuring longevity, reduced maintenance, and consistent water delivery for pivot irrigation systems.
Results
The Foras solar irrigation system now supplies 40,000 m³ of water per day to the farmland, all without burning a single liter of diesel fuel. This transition to solar power saves approximately 52,800 liters of diesel annually, dramatically reducing operating costs and environmental impact. The system operates reliably even with sandy water conditions and has proven its long-term efficiency under real-world farming demands.
Looking to transform your agricultural operations with sustainable, high-efficiency water solutions? Trust Foras to deliver solar-powered irrigation systems that meet your energy and productivity goals.
