# Decentralized Communication-Free Controller for Synchronous Solar-Powered Water Pumping with Emulated Neighbor Sensing

## TL;DR

A new decentralized system allows solar-powered water pumps to work together without communication, ensuring reliable water delivery in remote areas.

## Contribution

A communication-free control system for solar-powered pumps using emulated neighbor sensing is proposed.

## Key findings

- The system achieved steady-state operation with less than 4% error in water transfer.
- It maintained functionality during simulated power outages and variable sunlight conditions.
- Performance improved as average power increased, avoiding overflow or shortage.

## Abstract

Solar-powered pumping systems using series pumps are commonly applied in the delivery of water to remote agricultural regions, particularly in hilly tropical terrain. The synchronization of these pumps typically depends on reliable communication; however, dense vegetation, elevation changes, and weather conditions often disrupt signals. To address these limitations, a fully decentralized, communication-free control system is proposed. Each pumping station operates independently while maintaining synchronized operation through emulated neighbor sensing. The system applies a discrete-time control algorithm with virtual sensing that estimates neighboring pump statuses. Each station consists of a solar photovoltaic (PV) array, variable-speed drive, variable inlet valve, reserve tank, and local control unit. The controller adjusts the valve positions and pump power based on real-time water level measurements and virtual neighbor sensing. The simulation results across four scenarios, including clear sky, cloudy conditions, temporary outage, and varied irradiance, demonstrated steady-state operation with no water overflow or shortage and a steady-state error less than 4% for 3 m3 transfer. The error decreased as the average power increased. The proposed method maintained system functionality under simulated power outage and variable irradiance, confirming its suitability for remote agricultural areas where communication infrastructure is limited.