As uncertainties persist regarding energy costs in farming, renewable energy sources are becoming increasingly appealing to agricultural operations.
While solar power is not a novel concept, it is now benefiting from the declining prices of solar panels and battery storage systems. This trend is making solar energy a more financially viable option for farmers, particularly those with existing structures such as sheds with suitable roofs.
One farming family, the Neilsons of Park Farm in Auldhouse, located on the outskirts of East Kilbride, exemplifies this shift towards renewable energy adoption. The Neilsons, comprising Hugh and his sons Ross, Glen, and Grant, manage a dairy operation with 410 cows utilizing eight robotic milking systems.
Dairy farming, known for its high energy demands, prompted the Neilsons to explore renewable energy alternatives, considering their annual energy costs were nearing £70,000.
After thorough consideration, the family opted for solar power as the most attractive option. They embarked on the installation of a solar panel system, consisting of 270kWh of solar panels (594 panels), mounted on the roof of their 79-meter by 30-meter (260-foot by 100-foot) cubicle shed. To address the variability of solar output, a 108kWh battery system was incorporated, along with inverters to store the generated electricity for on-farm use.
Ember Energy, a reputable renewable energy company with operations across Scotland and Northern England, executed the installation at Park Farm.
Stephen Hamilton, representing Ember Energy, emphasized the importance of securing a grid connection for solar panel installation, regardless of whether the electricity is intended for sale back to the grid. He outlined the meticulous process of assessing grid connections, roof suitability, and on-site energy consumption to optimize solar panel installation.
Regarding potential savings, Hamilton projected significant cost reductions for Park Farm with the new system. He estimated that the solar panels would cover around 75% of the farm’s electricity needs, resulting in substantial savings over time. Hamilton projected a return on investment of approximately 5 to 6 years, with a considerable return rate of around 20%.
Hamilton underscored the improved efficiency and longevity of modern solar panels, coupled with the affordability of lithium phosphate batteries, making renewable energy solutions an attractive option for farms seeking to minimize energy costs.