Solar energy can help farmers save money, reduce pollution and increase their self reliance. Because farming can be very energy intensive, small-scale solar technologies can help farmers meet their energy needs and reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Some of these technologies also help increase productivity and product quality. Solar technologies can be used to provide space and water heating or to generate electricity to provide power for a variety of applications. Depending on the price of electricity in the local area, solar electricity can be economical even fifty feet from a grid connection, depending on the application. Solar powered electric fence equipment can be moved from one remote location to another, eliminating the need for running and maintaining a diesel or gasoline powered generator. A solar electric system is reliable and versatile. Basic components include the panel, the battery and a charge controller to keep the battery from overcharging. These systems can be used with efficient light fixtures, ventilation fans, pond aerators and deicers, and small appliances or other equipment with small motors (see Solar Electric Applications table on page 3).
Heating water accounts for 25 percent of the energy used on a dairy farm, and can be as much as 40 percent for large, commercial dairy farms. Solar water heating systems (also called solar thermal) can assist other farming operations as well by providing hot water for cleaning equipment, maintaining livestock, and reducing the need for conventional water heating. The sun’s heat can also be harnessed to heat building spaces (see Solar Thermal Applications table on page 4). Some systems combine electricity and heat from the sun. For example, poultry and pig farmers, who raise animals in enclosed buildings, can incorporate both electric and thermal solar technologies to provide supplemental heat and power to operate ventilation systems. A combination of solar applications also can be used for a reliable source of heat, light and power for greenhouses. These are just some of the many ways solar energy can be harnessed on a small farm that can improve both agricultural and economic productivity. The primary advantage of these technologies is their ability to produce energy in remote locations for specific purposes for a reasonable cost. Small systems can be particularly economical. (continued…)
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