Complete Off-grid solar energy system for Agricultural

Complete Off-grid solar energy system for Agricultural

300KW–1MW System: Agricultural Solar Energy Solution in Ecuador

Client: Sean, an organic farm owner

Client’s Needs: Uninterrupted power for irrigation and equipment in an area with unreliable grid access.

Challenges and Communication:

Sean needed consistent power for 24-hour operations. After reviewing his three-phase American-standard voltage and unique load requirements, we proposed two solutions: an all-in-one inverter or a split-frequency inverter. He selected the latter for its stability and ability to handle surges.

Final Configuration:

- System Size: 281KW PV + 300KW PCS + 1075KWh Battery

- Installation: Ground-mounted on a 1500m² area.

- Special Features: Grid and diesel generator interfaces for backup during cloudy or rainy days.

The system provided Sean’s farm with uninterrupted power, reduced downtime, and improved energy efficiency, supporting sustainable farming practices.

Need a reliable power solution for your agricultural operations? MH Energy offers tailored off-grid systems designed to ensure smooth and efficient operations. **Contact us now** for a free consultation!

Top 5 Things to Know Before Setting Up a Solar Energy System for Your Farm

Understand Your Farm’s Energy Loads – Especially Pumps and Motors

Farm operations often rely heavily on pumps, motors, and other equipment with high starting power demands. These incentive loads can require up to 5–7 times their running power during startup. For example:

- A 5 kW irrigation pump may need 25–35 kW of power to start.

- Large motors for grain dryers or processing units follow similar patterns.

Pro Tip: Ensure your solar system and inverters are sized to handle these surges, or add a battery system to smooth out these spikes without overloading your system.

Evaluate Space Availability for Solar Panels

Farms typically have large, open spaces perfect for ground-mounted systems. However, consider your land’s primary use, as this may affect placement. Rooftop installations on barns, storage units, or processing facilities are also viable options.

Panel Sizing Guide:

- 560–600W panels: Require ~2.59 sq. meters per panel.

- 610–640W panels: Require ~2.7 sq. meters per panel.

- 610–650W panels: Require ~2.8 sq. meters per panel.

Pro Tip: Maximize land use efficiency by exploring agrivoltaics—using solar panels above crops or grazing areas for dual-purpose farming.

Plan for Energy Storage to Manage Irregular Demand

Farms often have fluctuating energy needs based on seasonal operations or time of day. Adding a battery system ensures your farm has access to stored energy for critical operations, even during low sunlight or grid outages.

- Irrigation: Evening watering schedules.

- Cold Storage: Uninterrupted power for perishable goods.

- Processing Equipment: Reliable power for peak harvest periods.

Pro Tip: Hybrid solar systems with storage can balance energy peaks and provide seamless power for incentive load startups.

Consider Incentives and Financing for Agricultural Solar

Many governments and organizations offer specific incentives, tax credits, and subsidies for solar installations in agriculture. Leverage these programs to reduce upfront costs and accelerate ROI.

Partner with an Expert in Farm Solar Systems

Designing solar for a farm is different from residential or commercial projects. A knowledgeable provider understands the unique energy dynamics of agricultural operations, from irrigation pumps to grain dryers, and can design systems that deliver reliable performance and cost savings.

Why Choose MH Energy?

- Custom Design: Solutions tailored to handle high startup loads and operational demands.

- Advanced Technology: High-quality panels, inverters, and batteries for reliable and efficient performance.

- Comprehensive Support: From site assessment to installation and ongoing maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to Power Your Farm with Solar?

Take control of your farm’s energy future today. Partner with MH Energy for expert solar solutions that meet the unique needs of agricultural operations. Contact us now to get started!