**8. Conclusions**

This study presented a design of a micro-grid solar PV system for electrification and irrigation systems in two rural communities (Dir Ammar and Al-Birin hamlets) in Palestine since this technology is reliable and feasible for irrigation of agriculture crops. The solar PV systems minimize the dependence on diesel as well as conventional electricity sources, which may help solve the problems related to the lack of energy supply in Palestine. This study points out that the total cost of installing solar PV systems, including fixed, running and replacement costs are lower than those of diesel engines.

The implementation of solar micro-grid systems in rural areas suggests a diversity of approaches that address many objectives, such as rural electrification, solar PV dissemination, water availability and increasing agricultural productivity. The implemented projects in the discussed two communities, Dir Ammar and Al-Birin, are integrated into the processes of establishing more direct correlations between producing energy, availability of water and agricultural activities, not to mention increasing the created opportunities with respect to energy, water and food securities.

The performance analysis of micro-grid solar PV systems for electrification and irrigation of land for small communities in Palestine shows very good results. The installation of an electricity dispenser and training for the community on load management and using water for irrigation at night are key factors for no black outs and keeping batteries in good condition. The degree of satisfaction within the community is high, and the social development and utilizing of PV systems is more economically feasible for electrification and irrigation of remote villages of geographic, climate and load conditions similar to Dir Ammar and Al-Birin in Palestine. In addition, micro-grid solar PV systems do not pollute the environment, unlike the use of diesel generators.

**Funding:** This research received no external funding.

**Acknowledgments:** This research was sponsored by the Med-EcoSuRe project (www.enicbcmed.eu/projects/ med-ecosure), which receives funding from the European Union ENI CBC Mediterranean Sea Basin Programme (2014–2020) (grant agreement no. 26/1233).

**Conflicts of Interest:** The authors declares no conflict of interest.
