Since the Industrial Revolution energy use has been crucial for technological advancement. However, the depletion of fossil fuels and their impact on the climate has prompted the world to seek alternative energy sources. One promising option is solar energy, which is renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.
Solar energy can be harnessed in many ways, one way which is becoming widely known is the use of photovoltaic (PV) panels which harness sunlight and convert it into electricity. At Futurepump, this is the technology we use to power our solar water pumps.
The solar panel revolution is fascinating, over the decade we have been manufacturing solar water pumps we have witnessed a huge price drop in the technology. What used to be quite an investment has become accessible to all. In fact, the cost of solar panels has decreased by about 80% over this time – it’s now a smart choice both financially as well as for the environment.
Why did we bring solar panel manufacture in-house?
At Futurepump, we pride ourselves in providing products at the highest quality possible, and acting quickly when an order is made. The desire to be agile in this way, whilst maintaining a product we can put our 10-year warranty stamp on is why it was important for us to look at manufacturing our solar panels in-house.
We consulted advisors and brought on an expert solar panel production line manager to set up the facility in our factory in Rajkot, India.
So we’re sure you’re interested…
How exactly are solar panels produced?
A solar PV module consists of solar cells, glass, EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), a backsheet and a frame.
Step 1: Cutting
We purchase solar cells from a local vendor and our team cuts the solar cells using a cell cutting machine.
Step 2: Stringing
We connect the cells together with tabbing ribbons which then get lined up to create a single string.
Step 3: Testing
We place these strings on a glass panel and add an EVA and a backsheet. At this point we run our first tests using Electro Lamination (EL). If everything looks good, we move on to step 4.
Step 4:
Lamination; we place the glass, solar cell strings, EVA and backsheet into our lamination machine and laminate the entire set.
Step 5:
Testing. Once the lamination is complete, we have one last test to do with a Sun Simulator to check the output voltage. The maximum voltage we can achieve is 60V.
Step 6:
Framing. Finally, we add a frame to make the solar panel strong and durable.
We manufacture 60W and 100W solar panels to be used with our range of solar water pumps.
About Our Range
Futurepump solar water pumps are surface water pumps that operate using a motor, flywheel, and piston, all powered by solar energy. This straightforward design has fewer moving components compared to traditional petrol pumps.
Our products are specifically crafted to meet the irrigation needs of smallholder farmers, allowing them to effectively manage one or two acres for many years to come. Plus, every solar water pump in our range is backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty, ensuring a decade of peace of mind with no fuel expenses, minimal labor requirements, and hassle-free upkeep.
