Agricultural Solar PV Installers

Harness the power of the sun to make your farm more energy-efficient and sustainable with an agricultural solar panel system.

Solar Power For Agricultural Businesses

As an energy intensive industry, that relies on the environment for its success, it makes sense for agri-businesses to make the switch to solar PV systems. We’ve worked with countless farmers across Ireland to deliver huge cost savings and improved profitability.

Farmers and agricultural businesses can maximise a major untapped resource – vast unused roof space – to generate free electricity to power daily operations. With 14 years’ experience in the industry, we’ve helped countless farmers and agricultural businesses to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint.

Our Accreditations

Why Choose Alternative Energy for Your Agricultural Solar Panel Installation?

We’ve been working in the solar PV industry for 14 years, and electrical engineering for more than 20. With more than 1,800 installations over the years, we’ve worked on installs across Ireland, each completely bespoke.

Alternative Energy is a registered installer of photovoltaic systems, and we’re certified by SEAI. We hold all the required accreditations, and our team are highly trained.

From our initial consultation to the system handover, our team is on hand to answer any questions and make expert recommendations to maximise the return on your solar investment. Our aftercare, monitoring and maintenance give added peace of mind.

Our Expert Agricultural Solar Panel Installation Process

Consultation & Design

Each farm is fully assessed to establish the energy requirements, and the potential energy generation. Location, shading and aspect are considered before we provide a free quote.

Installation

When our skilled team are on site, disruption will be minimal. Each panel is installed with care and accuracy. Once we’re ready to hand over the system, we’ll show you how everything works.

Monitoring and Maintenance

Regular checks on your system performance are recommended to ensure solar generation remains at optimum levels. Maintenance of systems will ensure that your solar PV system continues to perform at a high standard for many years.

Commercial Solar Grants & Tariffs

Under the TAMS 3 Grant, eligible farmers can access financial support of up to €90,000. This substantial sum is aimed at covering a significant portion of the costs associated with acquiring and installing new technologies and systems that promote environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.

To be eligible for the TAMS 3 Grant, applicants must be actively engaged in the agricultural sector within Ireland. This includes farmers, agricultural contractors, and producers who meet specific criteria outlined by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).

What Are the Benefits of Agricultural PV Systems?

Reduced Utility Costs

Energy generated from solar PV panels can power your farm, reducing your reliance on grid energy and lowering your energy bills.

Efficient Energy Production

Harnessing the sun’s energy to produce your own electricity is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint through reduced need for fossil fuels.

Lower Carbon Footprint

Solar PV systems can be installed on unused roof space or unused land. Agrivoltaics is an emerging trend, giving a dual land use for solar PV generation and cultivating crops.

Energy Cost Savings

With lower reliance on grid power, solar powered operations are better protected from fluctuating energy prices.

Our installation and customer service team are trained to the highest standards in the solar power sector. We pride ourselves on giving our customers the highest professional standard of after care and support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Solar Panels

What is an agricultural solar PV system and how does it work?

Agricultural solar PV systems are suitable for reducing energy consumption on farms or agricultural businesses. With many energy intensive operations, electricity bills are a significant overhead for farmers. Installing solar PV systems allows you to reduce your overall energy bill, using your self-generated power instead of the grid.

Why should I use solar PV panels for my farm?

Installing a solar PV system for a farm allows an immediate reduction in grid electricity reliance and a reduction in energy overheads. Solar PV energy is a clean, green source of electricity, generated passively on unused roofs. The reduction in fossil fuel use and carbon emissions is also important for farmers who have a reliance on the environment.

What is a ground mount system?

Frames for ground mounted panels are installed in fields or gardens with solar PV panels fixed in place. Ground mount arrays are common if roofs face north or aren’t able to support the weight of a system.

What are agrivoltaics?

Agrivoltaics are becoming more popular as agricultural businesses embrace dual ground use. Ground mounted solar PV systems are used alongside other farming practices, offering shelter for grazing animals or growing crops.

Can a solar PV system power my entire farm?

Most solar PV systems will be able to provide a significant amount of energy to power farm operations, but only during daylight hours. In winter when days are shorter, and at night, generation will drop so it is unlikely your farm will be completely off-grid. Despite this, the energy costs saved still make solar PV an efficient way to power your farm.

Installing solar PV batteries will allow you to store more of the energy generated during the day for use during periods of lower generation, reducing your reliance on grid electricity.

Are grants available for the installation of solar panels?

There are grants available for solar PV system installations for farmer and agricultural business in Ireland. As part of our design consultation, we will investigate which grants will be most suitable, and advise on the application process. There are no grants available in Northern Ireland at the present time.

Is my farm or agricultural property appropriate for solar panel installation?

Most farms and sheds are suitable for solar PV installations. It’s an excellent way to save money on your energy overheads, while making full use of unused roof areas. As part of our free consultation and design process we will establish your energy requirements and available space.

Can I install solar panels on my agricultural or business premises?

Many farmers across Ireland are using solar PV panels to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. We have experience delivering large- and small-scale solar PV installations across Ireland and we understand the challenges facing the farming sector. Our installation process is quick and easy, causing minimal disruption and our aftercare process will ensure your investment performs as expected.

My home is remote, is that a problem?

We’ve installed over 1,800 systems across NI and ROI in the last 14 years. We’re more than happy to travel to you to discuss the best solar PV solution for your farm.

Do ground mounts interfere with agricultural land use?

Ground mounted PV systems can be an excellent way for farms and homeowners with enough space to generate huge amounts of power. Small animals e.g. sheep or chickens can use the areas under PV systems for shelter or grazing. Shade loving crops can also be grown under panels. Alternatively, the land around panels can be allowed to re-naturalise, helping to improve biodiversity of an area and improving the whole ecosystem.