Viability of solar or wind for water pumping systems in the Algerian Sahara regions - case study Adrar

The availability of water and the ability to access are the key questions arising in developing countries including Algeria. Indeed, due to lack of electricity, the Saharan regions representing 80% of the country are facing major problems to cover drinking water needs. Paradoxically, there is in some of these areas an important quantity of groundwater at shallow depths. On the other hand, Algeria has considerable renewable energy resources, particularly solar and wind energy options that are now relevant solutions to this problem. To date, few facilities specifically photovoltaic were conducted throughout the national territory (Saharan regions and highlands). However vandalism (destruction, robbery, etc.) did not spare these facilities particularly in border areas, such Adrar, and therefore prospective purchasers of such systems are discouraged. A new strategy to deal these actions became necessary for the regions most affected. In this context, we propose to study and compare the two options for solar and wind water pumping applications in the Adrar region. Because it has become necessary that the energy issue arises in new terms. It is proposed now to ask, taking into account the circumstances, which form of energy would be appropriate for what and for which ends. In other words, we will essentially develop a new spirit, a new attitude that would be based on a determination on a case by case basis, of the appropriate energy resource. This will allow to have another vision of the use and the viability of renewable energies. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.