Can solar power an irrigation pump directly?

Small DC pumps for stock tanks can run directly off panels. For irrigation-sized pumps, a grid-tied system is usually better: panels produce all year, and net metering credits offset the pump's summer use.

Does net metering work on agricultural accounts?

Generally yes, within each utility's size limits. Some utilities let you apply credits across meters on the same property under aggregation rules, which helps when the pump and the panels are on different meters. We check your utility's current rules first.

How big a solar system do I need for my pump?

It depends on run hours, not just horsepower. Your past 12 months of pump-meter bills give the yearly kWh; divide by about 1,450 kWh per kW for Southern Oregon to estimate system size.

Agricultural solar

Solar for irrigation pumps in Oregon

Irrigation is often a farm's largest power bill. Ground-mounted solar sized to your pump's yearly use can offset most of it.

Ground-mounted solar array in an open Oregon field.

Sizing

Typical solar size by pump

Rough ranges for pumps running about 1,000 to 1,600 hours a season in Southern or Central Oregon. Your pump-meter history gives the real number.

Pump	Yearly kWh	Solar size
10 hp	≈ 15,000–25,000	10–18 kW
25 hp	≈ 40,000–60,000	28–42 kW
50 hp	≈ 80,000–120,000	55–85 kW
100 hp	≈ 160,000–240,000	110–170 kW

Funding

Pair it with a USDA REAP grant

Irrigation solar is one of the most common REAP projects. Business owners may also benefit from accelerated depreciation; ask your tax advisor.

REAP grant guide

Irrigation FAQ