Solar Panels On Farms In Ireland
Solar panels on farms nowadays are a very common sight mainly due to the emergence and popularity of solar energy. Furthermore, installing solar panels on farms provides farmers with a host of benefits. Our goal through this article is to provide a complete guide regarding solar panels on farms in Ireland.
Why Install Solar Panels On Farms?
Help reduce operating costs:
Electricity, especially for farmers, is one of the most significant expenses. However, by installing solar panels, you can draw free energy. Therefore, moving to solar will provide better access to electricity and help reduce the operating cost by a significant margin.
Promotes sustainability:
Solar panels are a great way to achieve green credentials. What are green credentials? It is the qualities and improvements you make to show that you believe in protecting the environment. Moreover, it will give farmers an advantage over the competition as businesses are more likely to partner with individuals promoting sustainability.
Reduce carbon emissions:
The energy that is obtained from the sun is renewable, sustainable and contains zero carbon emissions.
Valuable investment:
In the long run, solar panels prove to be a valuable investment as it helps protect farmers from the rise in energy costs. In addition, farmers can see a payback on their solar panel investment in 5-6 years and take complete advantage of an unlimited supply of solar power for 20-30 years.
Types of Solar Panels On Farms
Roof-mounted solar panels:
Most farms in Ireland possess buildings that are apt for roof-mounted solar panels. Following are some of the benefits of using roof-mounted solar panels:
Maintenance and servicing costs for roof-mounted solar panels are low, hence, proving to be a cost-effective mode.
By installing solar panels onto the roof, you can utilise the unoccupied space and be in close proximity to the electric grid. Promotes sustainability:
Ground-mounted solar panels:
Most farms in Ireland possess buildings that are apt for roof-mounted solar panels. Following are some of the benefits of using roof-mounted solar panels:
Generates more solar output when compared to roof-mounted solar panels.
The solar panels can be angled in a way to absorb solar energy effectively.
The solar panels benefit from having better airflow, which helps in faster cooling, resulting in better efficiency.
What Are The Solar Grants Available To Farmers?
To further increase the popularity and adoption of Solar PV’s, the Irish government has introduced incentives by way of grants. Following are the grants available to Irish farmers:
The Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme offers farmers a 40% grant on solar panel investments. Moreover, qualified young farmers are eligible for up to 60%.
The grant provides up to €3,000 on solar panel installations. Finally, to know more about the grant, the eligibility criteria, click here.
The Better Energy Communities Programme provides financial and technical support to communities, businesses, farmers and households. Furthermore, the main aim of this grant is to deliver clean and sustainable energy solutions. Get your free Solar PV estimate
