The benefits of solar energy for farms
You might be well acquainted with how solar energy powers homes and workplaces. But, have you thought about its potential for your farm?
Installing solar PV on your farm holds numerous benefits, both for the environment and for your electricity bills. If you’ve been thinking about going solar, this guide is tailor-made for you.
Solar panels on farmland with Local Power
Solar panels’ myriad advantages span various sectors, but farmers stand to gain immensely.
Here’s a glimpse into why:
Flexible self-consumption
The majority of solar PV systems are connected to the electrical grid, meaning farmers aren’t fully self-sufficient and can still rely on support from the grid. However, they can utilise the solar power during its production phases, send excess energy back to the grid when their system overproduces, and draw electricity from the grid when their system isn’t generating enough. The use of batteries and intelligent technology for water heating can further reduce the amount of energy exported to the grid.
Financial savings and quick payback period
The expansive nature of modern farming results in hefty energy bills. Numerous farm-specific tools and facilities, like grain storage and dairy units, guzzle power. Escalating energy prices further strain farmers’ wallets. Solar panels emerge as a game-changer by letting farmers produce energy on-site, slashing bills, and buffering them against future price surges. Moreover, they safeguard farms from debilitating power outages, vital when livestock care is at stake.
Enhance your green credentials
Keeping pace with our tech-driven era, solar panels have evolved considerably. Contemporary panels are often devoid of the traditional glass substrate, they’re more eco-friendly owing to a sustainable manufacturing process, and their installation has never been easier.
The agricultural sector in Ireland is under the scanner to trim its carbon emissions. Solar panels offer a significant stride towards this goal by fulfilling energy needs and simultaneously slashing carbon footprints.
A leap against global warming
Global warming remains a hot topic. Embracing solar energy is arguably the most impactful strategy to reduce our carbon imprint. Solar panels, beyond powering farms, contribute surplus clean energy to the grid, amplifying renewable energy dissemination.
The aforementioned are general highlights of how solar energy can uplift farms. Recognising the distinctiveness of every farm, we believe solar energy packs in several specific benefits tailored for you.
Grants and Tax incentives
A significant motivation for farmers to adopt solar energy is the financial return, greatly amplified by grants and tax incentives. Farmers can avail of the TAMS grant, covering 60% of their solar PV installation expenses, and we handle all the requisite documentation for their application.
Additionally, if the TAMS grant isn’t suitable or they prefer a swift installation, they can opt for the business grant, typically covering around 20% of costs. Even if they aren’t VAT registered, farmers can reclaim the VAT on their solar PV installation and claim 100% Accelerated Capital Allowances in the first year. This can account for 12.5% of the total system cost for businesses or as much as 50% for sole proprietors.
Speak with our specialists at Local Power for a deeper understanding of solar panels and potential installation insights.