REVIEW JURNAL INTERNATIONAL

Title Investigating the Installation of Solar Panels in Reducing the

Evaporation of Canal Water
Jurnal name, Journal of Water and Wastewater,Vol. , No. , 2023
volume and Year
Reviewer M.Zarezadeh
Background The integration of solar panel systems with water infrastructure such
as canals presents a novel and efficient approach in modern hydrology,
particularly in regions facing challenges related to water scarcity and
high evaporation rates. The Minab region in Hormozgan province,
Iran, has emerged as a significant agricultural hub, largely due to the
presence of the Esteghlal Dam basin. However, recurrent droughts and
decreased rainfall pose significant challenges to sustainable water
supply for agriculture in this region.

To address these challenges, the installation of solar panels along an

8-kilometer canal in Minab city has been simulated using PVSol 2021
software. The simulation results indicate that covering approximately
60% of the canal's length with solar panels could generate around 5
MW of electricity from renewable sources. Moreover, this installation
is projected to reduce water evaporation from the canal by over 6000
cubic meters annually.
Research The primary objective of this research is to investigate the feasibility
Objectives and effectiveness of reducing water evaporation from the irrigation
canal in Minab city through the strategic installation of solar panels
along its length. Additionally, the study aims to evaluate the potential
benefits of integrating solar energy generation with water
infrastructure to address both energy and water supply challenges. By
simulating the installation of solar panels using advanced software
tools, the research seeks to provide insights into the technical and
economic viability of this approach
Materials and 1. Field Data Collection: Gathered data on water flow rates,
Methods canal dimensions, and geographical characteristics.
2. Climate and Weather Data Acquisition: Sourced climate
data (temperature, solar radiation, precipitation) from
international databases.
3. Simulation Software Selection: Chose PVSol Permium 2021
software for its advanced three-dimensional capabilities.
4. Simulation Process: Divided canal route into three sections
for separate simulation. Determined technical specifications
for solar panel installation.
5. Installation Design: Designed solar panel installation based
on orientation and shading considerations. Placed panels
strategically to maximize solar exposure.
6. Environmental Impact Assessment: Considered potential
environmental impacts, recommended field investigations.
7. Economic Analysis: Evaluated economic feasibility and cost-
effectiveness.
 8. Performance Evaluation: Evaluated performance based on
energy generation capacity and reduction in water evaporation
rates. Conducted comparative analysis with existing research
findings.

Results The simulation results indicate favorable conditions for solar panel
installation in the Minab region, characterized by high solar radiation
and low cloud cover. The projected installation of solar panels along
the canal is estimated to generate approximately 5 MW of electricity,
while concurrently reducing water evaporation by 40%. However,
sections of the canal passing through groves may experience
diminished panel efficiency due to shading effects, necessitating
careful consideration of installation locations.
Recommendations Based on the findings, it is recommended to proceed with the
installation of solar panels along the irrigation canal in Minab city,
prioritizing sections with minimal shading for optimal energy
generation and water conservation benefits. Additionally, further field
investigations are warranted to monitor the environmental impact,
water quality implications, and socioeconomic benefits of the solar
panel installation. Economic analysis should be conducted to assess
the cost-effectiveness and long-term viability of integrating solar
energy with water infrastructure, taking into account factors such as
initial investment costs, operational maintenance, and energy output.
By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can leverage
renewable energy solutions to enhance water management practices
and mitigate the impact of climate change on agricultural
sustainability in the region.