10. Conclusion
Researchers from various regions of the world have conducted many experimental and theoretical investigations on REWPSs. More than one hundred published articles related to RESWPSs were reviewed and briefly summarized. The published literature addressed in this paper confirmed that RESWPSs are identified as an alternative source for replacing conventional pumping meth- ods. The integration of RESs with water pumping systems plays a major role in reducing the consumption of conventional energy sources and their environmental impacts, particularly for irriga- tion applications. The SPWPSs are the most widely used RESWPSs for irrigation and domestic applications, followed by WEWPSs. The solar thermal and biomass water pumping systems are less popular due to their low thermal energy conversion efficiencies. The limitations faced by RESWPSs were identified and listed. The research openings in the field of RESWPSs were also highlighted. This review work provides a good background for researchers pursuing their research in the field of RESWPSs. The greater potential of solar and wind energy availability in India means that a solar photovoltaic-wind hybrid energy system for water pumping applications should be developed. The authors developed a solar photovoltaic-wind energy HREWPS and tested its performance under the meteorological conditions of Coimbatore city in India. The authors also propose its thermodynamic and economic feasibility for irrigation applications. Such research investigations are in progress in the research laboratory of the authors.