Which of the following is NOT a fire pump driver?

• A. Electric
• B. Solar
• C. Diesel
• D. Steam

Answer: (B)

Fire pump drives must provide immediate, independent power to start and run the pump during a fire. The standard, proven drive options are electric motors, diesel engines, and steam turbines. Solar power, while useful for some building loads, does not meet the requirements for a primary fire pump driver because its output depends on sunlight and weather and relies on storage systems to cover the emergency duration. This means there’s no guaranteed, instant, full-rated power to start and sustain the pump in all conditions. Therefore, solar is not used as the primary fire pump driver under typical standards.