Written by: Phil Davis, Managing Director at Renewables First and specialist in hydropower, wind power and solar power system design.
Reviewed by the Renewables First engineering team for technical accuracy.
In the dynamic landscape of agriculture, embracing innovation and technology is paramount to meet the growing demand for food while ensuring sustainability and efficiency. Recognising this need, the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) in England offers grants to farmers and horticulturalists to enhance productivity through various means, including the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Solar PV grants present a valuable opportunity for agricultural businesses to transition towards renewable energy sources and optimise their operations for long-term sustainability.
Solar PV systems constitute a significant aspect of these grants, enabling farmers to harness clean and renewable energy from the sun to power their operations. Eligible applicants can access funding for:
• Solar panels,
• batteries,
• inverters,
• utility meters,
• electrical grid connections,
• power diverters.
These components collectively form a comprehensive solar PV infrastructure that can significantly reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels.
Farmers intending to apply for solar PV grants must adhere to specific guidelines and limitations set by the RPA. The grant covers only solar PV equipment installed on farm building rooftops or irrigation reservoirs. Ground-based solar arrays or panels situated on north-facing roofs or heavily shaded areas are ineligible for funding. Additionally, the grant cannot be utilised for other renewable energy generation projects, such as anaerobic digester plants.
Grant limits are determined based on the type of equipment and project scope. For solar PV applications, the grant will cover up to 25% of the cost with a minimum grant of £15,000 (25% of £60,000), and a maximum grant of £100,000 per applicant business.
To make the application you will need to know information such as the size of solar PV project, items making up the system, including storage and their estimated cost. Renewables First’s PV Feasibility Study service will answer all these questions for you as well as project the amount of energy the system will produce and how much will be consumed onsite. We will develop a system that will match your needs and strengthen your case with the grant application. Once you’ve received the grant we can then go on to design and install the system. Renewables First have the experience to take your project from concept to fully installed and ensure the system is right for your energy needs and budget.
It’s essential to note that solar PV grants are part of a competitive process, with applications evaluated based on funding priorities established by the RPA. Projects that demonstrate improvements in productivity, environmental sustainability, innovation, and address labour shortages are given precedence. Furthermore, the grant cannot cover all project costs, necessitating applicants to secure additional financing through loans, overdrafts, or other permissible sources, excluding other public funding.
The application process for solar PV grants involves two stages. Initially, applicants complete an online checker to assess eligibility and alignment with funding priorities. The window for applications to the first stage closes on 21st March. Shortlisted candidates progress to the second stage, where they submit a full application form for comprehensive evaluation. Successful applicants meeting eligibility criteria and scoring high against funding priorities receive grant offers from the RPA.
Solar PV grants offer a strategic avenue for farmers and horticulturalists in England to invest in renewable energy infrastructure and enhance productivity sustainably. By embracing solar power, agricultural businesses can reduce environmental impact, enhance energy independence, and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable food production system. Through strategic allocation of resources and innovative solutions, agriculture can evolve towards a greener and more efficient future.
Renewables First can help with sizing a solar PV system for your needs and provide performance data to strengthen your grant application with technical facts. Once you’ve raised the capital, we will be ready to design and install the system. Contact us today to kick start the feasibility process.
Phil Davis
Manging Director | Renewables First
About the Author
Phil has worked in the renewables sector since 2001 and founded Hydro Generation, which became Renewables First in 2009.
A qualified mechanical engineer (BEng, MSc Renewable Energy Systems), Phil is a recognised expert in hydropower, wind and solar PV across all project stages.
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