Solar Panels for Farms: Church Farm, Stanton Prior, Somerset
Client
Church Farm
Sector
Farms
Technology
Solar PV
System Size
132 kWp
Estimated Annual Output
143.05 MWh
Payback Period Including FITS
1.8 Years
25 Year Net Profit
£960k
Annual Carbon Savings
27.64 T
Excel Energy is an approved partner with many manufacturers each offering long term warranties and proven reliability
DMEGC Solar Panels:
25 Years
SolarEdge Inverter:
20 Years
SolarEdge S1000 Optimisers
25 Years
A1140 Meter Monitoring By Orsis Limited
5 Years
Schletter Roof Mounting System:
25 Years
Workmanship:
5 Years
Agricultural businesses in the UK are increasingly facing high energy costs, operational pressures, and the need to meet environmental targets. Solar panels for farms offer a practical solution to reduce running costs, improve onsite energy generation, and support sustainability goals.
This case study explores how Church Farm in Stanton Prior, Somerset, upgraded its solar infrastructure to achieve maximum efficiency, cost savings, and environmental benefits.
Why Church Farm Replaced Its Old Solar System
Church Farm, a working dairy farm, previously operated a 14-year-old solar system. Over time, the system began to experience frequent tripping and underperformance, impacting both electricity savings and Feed-in Tariff (FIT) returns.
A large South West landowner recognised that maintaining an outdated photovoltaic (PV) system was no longer financially viable and decided to replace it. The goal was to improve onsite generation, maximise FIT benefits, and ensure a reliable source of renewable energy for daily farm operations.
Removal of Existing Solar Equipment
Excel Energy managed the complete removal of the old installation, ensuring minimal disruption to the farm. The removed equipment included:
389 Romag 235wp solar modules
8 SMA inverters
All mounting systems and associated components
Excel Energy holds a valid Waste Carrier’s Licence, guaranteeing that all decommissioned components were disposed of responsibly, meeting legal obligations and supporting the circular economy.
The careful removal of the old system was critical to allow the new installation to proceed efficiently and safely.
Installation of a High-Performance Solar System for Farms
The farm’s new rooftop solar system was designed to provide high efficiency, reduce grid dependency, and increase overall energy security. The upgraded installation includes:
264 new 500wp DMEGC A-rated solar modules with A fire performance certification
1 SE100k SolarEdge synergy inverter
132 S1000 optimisers
Schletter solar mounting system
Feed-in meter, house connection, and bidirectional meter
This modern SolarEdge solution allows Church Farm to optimise energy production and consumption, ensuring that solar energy is used efficiently throughout the farm’s operations.
Estimated Solar PV for Farms Performance and Savings
The new solar installation provides significant measurable benefits for the farm:
Estimated 74,000kWh of solar energy consumed onsite per year
Approximately £19,900 in estimated annual savings
42% reduction in grid electricity demand
Reduction of 27.64 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year
By upgrading the system, Church Farm has not only reduced its energy costs but has also contributed to broader sustainability targets, helping the farm meet environmental compliance expectations.
Planning Solar Panel Installations Around Farm Operations
Installing solar panels on a working dairy farm requires careful planning to minimise disruption to day-to-day activities and protect livestock welfare. Excel Energy developed a four-week installation plan that included:
Erection of scaffolding and safety netting
Safe removal of old panels
Installation of the new SolarEdge system
Health and Safety procedures were strictly observed, including controlled access to roofs and machinery. This approach ensured the safety of farm staff, animals, and the installation team while maintaining the farm’s operational workflow.
Benefits of Solar Panels for Agricultural Businesses
Upgrading to a modern solar system provides multiple advantages for farms:
Reduce Energy Costs:
Higher onsite generation lowers electricity bills and increases FIT returns.
Boost Sustainability:
Significant reduction in CO2 emissions supports environmental commitments.
Increase Reliability:
Modern systems reduce maintenance requirements and minimise downtime.
Maximise Asset Value:
High-performance equipment extends operational lifespan and increases energy security.
Farm tenants, estate managers, and agricultural businesses can find clear, practical benefits from solar solutions. Investing in solar panels for farms makes financial sense and supports long-term efficiency and sustainability.
Why Agricultural Solar Solutions UK Can Help
Excel Energy offers a complete service for agricultural businesses, from initial consultation and system design to installation and commissioning. Agricultural solar solutions are customised to accommodate farm schedules, operational needs, and regulatory requirements.
Farms can ask Excel Energy for advice on system sizing, predicted savings, and integration with existing energy infrastructure. By planning installations carefully, farms can use solar energy effectively to reduce running costs and improve resilience to energy price fluctuations.
Feed-in Tariff Benefits for Farms
For UK farms participating in the Feed-in Tariff, replacing underperforming systems can provide immediate financial advantages. Modern solar panels maximise the amount of energy exported or consumed onsite, improving revenue streams.
Church Farm’s upgrade demonstrates how a well-planned solar installation can increase FIT returns while also reducing grid reliance, contributing to long-term operational and financial sustainability.
The Impact of Modern Solar Solutions at Church Farm
Church Farm’s solar system replacement shows the practical and financial benefits of putting solar panels on farms. By taking out an old system and installing a high-performance SolarEdge solution, the farm achieved significant energy savings. It also reduced reliance on the grid and lowered its carbon footprint.
In summary, agricultural solar solutions in the UK offer clear reductions in operating costs. They provide better energy reliability and real environmental benefits. For farm tenants, estate managers, and agricultural businesses, using modern solar technology is a smart choice that promotes long-term savings, operational efficiency, and sustainability goals.
Ready to Reduce Your Farm’s Energy Costs?
If you want practical advice on upgrading a solar system that isn’t working well or installing a new high-efficiency setup for your farm, fill out the form HERE.
Our team will check your farm’s energy use and give you direct, honest guidance on the best solar option for your agricultural business.
Request a FREE site assessment today and find out how much your farm could save each year.