GREENFIELDS Farms, an agricultural operation located in Western Cape, South Africa, faces increasing challenges with energy supply and costs.
The farm, spanning over 196ha, specialises in producing high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables, and wine grapes, all requiring intensive irrigation and temperature-controlled storage facilities.
Frequent power outages and escalating electricity prices have put significant pressure on the farm’s operational efficiency and profitability.
The challenges
Power Outages: Regular load shedding disrupts irrigation schedules, affecting crop yields and quality.
High Electricity Costs: Rising electricity tariffs increase operational costs, reducing the farm’s competitiveness.
Sustainability Goals: GreenFields Farms aims to reduce its carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable farming practices.
The Solutions
To address these challenges, GreenFields Farms partnered with Livoltek to implement a tailored solar energy solution. After a comprehensive energy audit, Livoltek designed a robust system that meets the farm’s specific needs:
100kW Solar PV System: Installed across available rooftops and open land, the PV system generates an average of 530kWh per day. This setup powers irrigation systems, refrigeration units, and other essential equipment, ensuring consistent energy supply.
450kWh Battery Storage: The battery storage system provides backup power during load shedding and nighttime, maintaining uninterrupted operations.
Hybrid Inverter System: Integrating solar power with the existing grid and diesel generators, the hybrid inverter system optimises energy use and efficiency.
The financial and environmental impact
Significant Cost Savings: By switching to solar power, GreenFields Farms reduces its electricity costs from R3,00/kW to R0,90/kW, saving approximately R25 500 per month.
These savings can be reinvested into the farm to improve infrastructure and expand operations.
Tax Incentives: Utilising Section 12B of the Income Tax Act, GreenFields Farms benefits from a 125% tax deduction on their solar investment, further enhancing the financial viability of the project.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: The solar PV system reduces the farm’s reliance on diesel, which usually comes to a purchase of 500 – 1000ℓ per month, cutting greenhouse gas emissions significantly. This move aligns with the farm’s sustainability goals and improves its reputation among environmentally conscious consumers and partners.
The operational benefits:
Enhanced Reliability: The solar system ensures a reliable power supply, minimising disruptions to irrigation and storage systems.
Increased Productivity: Consistent energy availability allows for optimal irrigation schedules and storage conditions, leading to higher crop yields and quality.
Sustainability Leadership: By adopting solar energy, GreenFields Farms positions itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture, attracting potential investors and partners interested in green initiatives.
The outcome
GreenFields Farms not only achieve substantial monthly savings but also secures a reliable and sustainable energy source.
The environmental benefits and cost savings strengthen the farm’s market position and pave the way for future expansions. GreenFields Farms becomes a model for other agricultural operations looking to embrace renewable energy and sustainable practices.
