The efficiency of electrical energy use was evaluated in the Pirapora Irrigation District, during the years of 1999 and 2000. The irrigation demand was simulated based on the soil water balance, considering an optimum irrigation management. The annual average energy consumption index for the irrigation district was determined using the water irrigation volume applied and the energy consumption in the pumping plants. With the simulated water volumes and the mean annual energy consumption index, the energy consumption was simulated for the condition of an ideal irrigation management. The simulated energy consumption was compared with the real one. According to the results it may be concluded that due to excessive water application the energy consumption was high. Thus, a good irrigation management program is needed to optimize the use of water and electrical energy in the Pirapora Irrigation District.
electrical energy; efficiency; irrigation district
