Solar PV for Farms: Church Farm Slashes Energy Bills
Client
Church Farm Podimore
Sector
Farms
Technology
Solar PV
System Size
51.70 kWp
Estimated Annual Output
58.73 MWh
Payback Period
6.2 Years
25 Year Net Profit
£ 120,459
Annual Carbon Savings
11.36 T
Excel Energy is an approved partner with many manufacturers each offering long term warranties and proven reliability
Aiko Solar Panels:
30 Years
SolarEdge Inverter:
25 Years
Inepro 380 meters
5 Years
Watt Node meter
5 Years
K2 Rail Roof mounting system:
10 Years
Workmanship:
5 Years
Solar PV for Farms: Church Farm Slashes Energy Bills
Church Farm, a busy dairy operation nestled in Podimore, Somerset, partnered with Excel Energy to future-proof its energy supply, cut operational costs, and embrace environmental responsibility. With demanding early-morning milking routines and around-the-clock power requirements, the farm needed a bespoke solar PV solution that delivered energy independence without compromising on performance.
Excel Energy delivered a full turnkey solar PV and battery energy storage solution, deploying the latest high-efficiency technology from Aiko and SolarEdge, tailored to the unique demands of agricultural energy use.
From Inception to Completion: Precision-Engineered Solar PV System Delivery
Church Farm’s solar PV system was the result of a comprehensive, turnkey solution planned, designed, and installed entirely by Excel Energy’s in-house team. From the initial structural assessment and DNO grid coordination through to installation, commissioning, and client training, every phase was carefully managed to uphold the highest standards of quality and performance. This seamless process ensured full accountability, technical consistency, and a solar PV system built to deliver reliable results for decades to come.
Key components of the solar PV for farms installation included:
110 x Aiko Neostar 2P 470W N-Type solar modules
premium high-efficiency panels for maximum yield.
SolarEdge Synergy & Home Hub Inverters (33.3kW + 10kW)
smart inverter technology for advanced control and reliability.
SolarEdge 23kWh Home Battery System
enabling the farm to store energy and power essential early-mornings and late afternoon milking operations.
K2 Solid Rail Mounting System
durable, and robust mounting framework work.
Advanced monitoring tools
including Inepro380 mod-bus meters and a full online monitoring suite for real-time system insights.
Professional installation
seamless integration of electrical systems and in adherence to BS7671 and MCS standards.
Why Battery Storage Matters for Agriculture
Church Farm’s energy profile is dominated by early morning and late afternoon usage, when solar generation is minimal. To meet this challenge, Excel Energy integrated a 23kWh BESS (Battery Energy Storage System), enabling the farm to harness solar energy produced during the day and store it for use during the high-demand pre-dawn milking period.
This strategic inclusion ensures:
Reduced reliance on the grid during peak tariff times
Harness surplus solar generation to increase site's self sufficiency
Improved energy security and resilience
Environmental and Financial Benefits
Financial Payoff: High-Yield Returns from Renewable Investment
Church Farm is now experiencing the full benefits of a precision-engineered renewable energy system, combining real environmental impact with strong financial returns.
Over the solar PV system’s lifetime, it's projected to deliver net energy bill savings of approximately £120,459, averaging £6,022.95 per year, with peak annual savings reaching up to £9,165.22. These figures highlight the farm’s strategic move toward energy resilience and long-term cost efficiency.
Carbon Reduction with Lasting Impact
By generating clean, renewable electricity on-site, Church Farm is reducing its carbon footprint by 11.36 tonnes of CO₂ every year. That’s the equivalent of planting 522 trees annually, significantly offsetting the farm’s environmental impact. This commitment not only supports the UK’s net-zero goals but also enhances the farm’s sustainability credentials, a growing factor in consumer trust and agricultural supply chain requirements.
Solar PV Solution Return on Investment That Pays for Itself
The numbers speak volumes. With an internal return rate (IRR) of 15.93% and a payback period of just 6.2 years, the solar PV system is a high-performing asset. After the payback period, Church Farm can expect decades of virtually free electricity, significantly reducing long-term operating costs. Given the 30-year performance warranty on the Aiko panels and extended warranties on key components, the financial benefits will stretch far into the future.
Live System Monitoring = Peak Performance
The PV solar system includes a full online monitoring platform, enabling real-time performance tracking, proactive maintenance, and data-driven energy management. This gives Church Farm full visibility into its solar production and battery storage behaviour, ensuring maximum system efficiency and making every kilowatt count.
Protection From Market Volatility
In a time of rising and unpredictable energy prices, the farm’s solar, battery solution provides long-term price stability. By reducing dependence on the grid, particularly during early morning high-tariff usage periods, Church Farm is insulated from future energy market fluctuations, giving it a major advantage over traditionally powered operations.
A Leadership Role in Sustainable Agriculture
With this investment, Church Farm is more than just energy-efficient, it’s a model of sustainable farming in the UK. The solar PV for farms system strengthens operational resilience, slashes emissions, and future-proofs the business against economic and environmental pressures. It’s a clear statement that Church Farm is committed to smarter, cleaner, and more profitable agricultural practices.
Excel Energy – Quality Without Compromise
Every system Excel Energy install is built on decades of industry expertise and a reputation for delivering high-quality, future-ready renewable energy solutions. This project is no exception.
✅ MCS Certified
✅ ISO9001 (Quality Management)
✅ Working towards PAS2060 (Carbon Neutrality)
✅ Up to 30-year product warranties
✅ 5-year comprehensive workmanship guarantee
✅ Remote system monitoring & full client training included
A Turnkey Partnership from Start to Finish
Excel Energy’s in-house project team oversaw every element of the Church Farm installation, including:
✅ Structural surveys
✅ DNO G99 application
✅ Electrical Integration
✅ Scaffolding, Netting and equipment hire
✅ Installation, commissioning & testing
✅ Certification, documentation & end-user training
This full-service model ensures streamlined project delivery, lower risk, and faster operational efficiency for the client.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Farming
With this solar PV panel installation, Church Farm has not only reduced its carbon footprint but also taken control of its energy future, boosting both its bottom line and environmental credentials. This is a shining example of how modern renewable technology, when delivered with precision and purpose, can transform traditional agricultural operations.
Excel Energy: Reliable. Renewable. Ready.
