A Bright Opportunity for Sustainable Farming

The UK Government has recently unveiled a promising initiative for the agricultural sector – a new grant specifically designed for Solar PV installations on farms. This move aligns with the growing need for sustainable energy solutions in agriculture, aiming to increase efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.

Not Your Typical Solar Farm

This grant is a significant departure from the usual controversy surrounding solar farms. It’s not about occupying precious farmland; instead, it focuses on utilising existing structures like farm building rooftops and irrigation reservoirs. This approach ensures that valuable agricultural land remains dedicated to farming, while still harnessing solar energy.

Grant Details: A Boost for Farm Productivity

Part of the “Improving Farm Productivity Grant Round 2,” this initiative offers financial support to encourage solar energy adoption in farming. The minimum grant available is £15,000, which equates to 25% of a project valued at £60,000. The upper limit for the grant is £100,000 per applicant business. Given the potential demand, early application is advised to secure funding.

What the Grant Covers:

• Solar PV panels
• Solar batteries
• Inverters
• Utility meters
• Electrical grid connections
• Power diverters

Eligible Installations:

• Farm building rooftops
• Irrigation reservoirs

Application Process:

Securing a grant from the Rural Payments Agency involves a detailed process. It’s crucial to navigate this accurately to ensure compliance and maximise chances of success. Farms with high electricity usage, like cold stores or livestock farms with ventilated sheds, stand to benefit significantly, especially when integrating battery storage for round-the-clock energy use.

You can find out more on the Government website here

The Advantages of Solar PV and Battery Storage:

• Optimised Energy Usage: Farms operating 24/7 can store surplus electricity generated during the day for nighttime use. Additionally, batteries can draw power during off-peak, cheaper times, and discharge during more expensive periods.
• Reduced Demand Peaks: In areas with limited electricity supply, battery storage can alleviate pressure on the grid.

Costs and Quality Considerations:

The cost of Solar PV installations has become more affordable, ranging between £700 and £1,000 per kWp, depending on factors like roof type. It’s

important to invest in quality equipment and installation. Opting for reliable brands like SolarEdge offers more efficient power generation and enhanced safety features.

Tailored Solutions for Every Farm

Every farm has unique needs, and the right size and type of Solar PV installation are crucial. Safety is paramount, especially when incorporating battery storage, which requires careful sizing and optimization for the best value and performance.

Your Next Steps

As experts in sustainable energy solutions, we understand the intricacies of solar installations in diverse environments, including farms. Our team can guide you through the grant application process, ensuring you receive the best advice and support.

Interested in taking advantage of this fantastic opportunity? For more information and expert guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can harness the power of the sun to fuel a more sustainable future in agriculture.

Contact us here