BrightGridFarms can have substantial electricity demand from pumps, refrigeration, lighting, milking equipment, ventilation, workshops and other operations. Agricultural buildings can also provide significant roof area for solar.
Rooftop solar on farm buildings
Large agricultural roofs can provide useful installation space without using additional ground area. The roof structure and condition should be assessed before installation.
Ground-mounted solar
Ground-mounted systems can provide additional solar capacity where suitable land is available, but planning, land use, environmental considerations and grid connection requirements must be assessed.
Why farm electricity demand matters
- Milk cooling
- Water pumping
- Refrigeration
- Ventilation
- Lighting
- Workshop equipment
- Machinery
- EV charging
Can farms benefit from batteries?
Battery storage can help shift electricity between periods of generation and demand. Larger agricultural sites may have useful load profiles for storage.
What if the farm generates more than it uses?
Surplus electricity may potentially be exported, subject to the grid connection and commercial arrangements. The value of on-site consumption should be compared with export income.
Design around the farm operation
The best agricultural solar system should reflect seasonal electricity demand, working patterns, roof space and future electrification plans.
Explore solar for your farm
Assess agricultural roofs, electricity demand, batteries and potential export opportunities.
Request a Farm AssessmentFrequently asked questions
Can farms install solar panels?
Yes. Farm buildings and suitable land can provide opportunities for solar, subject to technical and planning requirements.
Is rooftop solar better than ground-mounted solar for farms?
It depends on roof condition, available land, electricity demand, planning requirements and grid connection.
Can farms sell excess solar electricity?
Surplus electricity can potentially be exported subject to the applicable connection and commercial arrangements.
Can farm solar include batteries?
Yes. Battery storage can be considered where the farm load profile and tariff structure support it.
Christopher Dean
Agricultural Energy Specialist at BrightGrid Energy
