A solar-powered pump is a pump running on electricity generated by photovoltaic panels or the radiated thermal energy available through collected sunlight as opposed to grid electricity or diesel run water pumps. As such, Solar Water Pumping System can act as a stand-alone system operating directly on power generated by Solar Photovoltaic Modules during the daytime.

The operation of solar powered pumps is more economical mainly due to the lower operation and maintenance costs and has less environmental impact than pumps powered by an internal combustion engine (ICE). Solar Pumps can be uses for lifting water from tubewell, Shallow wells, Ponds, Canals for either drinking water in or for irrigation purpose.

From Railway's point of view, solar pumps can be useful at remote places particularly at way side stations; level crossings etc. where grid electricity is unavailable and alternative sources (in particular wind) do not provide sufficient energy. Alternatively these can also be used at small colonies and independent houses and may be used with water harvesting system.