Solar Installation at a Farm in Appledore, Kent

Harnessing the Sun for Sustainable Energy

At a picturesque farm in Appledore, Kent, we’ve recently completed a state-of-the-art solar installation designed to help the farm reduce energy costs, increase sustainability and future-proof its energy needs. This project showcases how modern solar technology can transform agricultural operations and contribute to a greener, more self-sufficient future. Here's an overview of the installation process, the key components and the benefits of this solar system.

Key Features of the Solar Installation

Solar Panels: A total of 18 x 445W panels were installed, providing a combined output of 8.01kW. These high-efficiency panels are perfect for maximising energy generation, especially in areas where roof space might be limited. JA Solar is known for its reliability and durability, ensuring a long-lasting investment in clean energy.
Inverter and Optimisers: To convert the solar power into usable energy, we installed a SolarEdge Home Hub 5kW inverter. SolarEdge inverters are renowned for their smart grid capabilities, enabling the system to operate efficiently even in challenging conditions. Each panel is equipped with a SolarEdge optimiser, which allows for panel-level monitoring and maximises energy production by mitigating issues like shading or dirt build-up.
Battery Storage: The installation also includes four 4.6kW SolarEdge batteries, allowing the farm to store excess solar energy generated during sunny days for use at night or during periods of high demand. This energy storage solution ensures that the farm remains self-sufficient, with a steady supply of electricity regardless of weather conditions or time of day.
Backup Interface Unit: The system is further enhanced with a backup interface unit, which is designed to keep essential loads powered in the event of a grid outage. This ensures that the farm’s operations can continue smoothly even if the national grid experiences a disruption.
Bird Protection Mesh: To protect the solar panels from potential damage caused by birds, we installed **bird protection mesh**. This mesh helps prevent nesting and ensures that the panels continue to operate efficiently without obstruction or wear from environmental factors.

Additional Considerations

To safely and efficiently install the solar panels, we used scaffolding to reach the roof and ensure the system was set up to the highest safety standards.
The panels are securely mounted using mounting rails, known for their strength and ability to withstand various weather conditions. These rails help ensure the panels remain firmly in place for years to come.
To ensure the system meets UK government standards and qualifies for incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), we registered the installation with MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). This certification is crucial for any renewable energy installation in the UK.
As part of the process, we coordinated with UK Power Networks (UKPN) to ensure the solar system was safely connected to the national grid and that all necessary permissions were in place.

Why Solar Power Makes Sense for Farms

For farms like this one in Appledore, solar power offers a range of benefits. Agriculture can be an energy-intensive industry and solar panels help reduce dependency on grid electricity, which can be costly, especially for farms that require constant energy to power equipment, machinery and irrigation systems.

By installing a robust solar power system, the farm is now able to:

Lower energy costs. With the ability to generate its own electricity, the farm reduces its reliance on external energy providers.
Become more self-sufficient. The integration of solar panels with battery storage means the farm can operate independently, even when the grid is down.
Reduce its carbon footprint. By choosing clean, renewable energy, the farm contributes to sustainability and plays a role in combating climate change.
Improve energy resilience. With the backup interface unit, the farm ensures continuous power for critical operations, regardless of external factors.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

One of the standout features of this installation is the 25 years of free monitoring included with the system. This means the farm owner can keep track of the system's performance in real-time, receiving updates on energy production, consumption and battery storage. This long-term monitoring not only provides peace of mind but also helps identify any potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring optimal system performance.

Conclusion

This solar installation at the farm in Appledore is a perfect example of how renewable energy can benefit agricultural operations. With the right mix of high-quality solar panels, inverters, battery storage and backup systems, the farm is now well-equipped to take control of its energy future. Not only does this system provide financial savings and operational resilience but it also supports the transition to a more sustainable, environmentally friendly agricultural model.

If you're considering solar for your farm or business, the benefits are clear - savings on energy costs, improved energy independence and a positive environmental impact.

If you want to learn more about how solar energy can work for you, get in touch with us for a free quote.