In recent years, we have seen the adoption of solar energy everywhere from residential systems to off-the-grid recreational vehicles. Even more recently, rural farming operations have started to see the benefits and cost savings of solar energy. At Sun Farmer’s Group, we specialize in bringing solar energy to the farmers across America. One critical question we get from clients is “can solar energy be stored”? In this article, we will answer that question and discuss the specifics of storing solar energy.
Understanding the Importance of Agricultural Solar Energy
If you are a farmer, it is no surprise that agriculture is an energy-intensive industry. You also know that finding room in the profit margins is becoming harder year over year. From the rising costs of goods to the skyrocketing electricity bills, farmers have had little to no options available to them. Agricultural solar energy gives farmers an opportunity to harness a clean, renewable energy source. Even better, using solar energy replaces a growing energy bill with a more manageable loan payment. Eventually, farmers eliminate their energy bill entirely and sever their dependency on outside resources they can’t control. For some farmers, this is the difference between a profitable business and losing a family farm.
How Solar Energy is Stored
Can solar energy be stored? Yes, it can. It can be stored in more ways than one. The reason storage for solar energy is so important is because of how solar energy works. Essentially, solar panels can only harness the sun’s power and turn it into electricity when the sun is out. Excessive stretches of cloudiness and rain can affect solar energy production. This means that farmers need to make the most of peak sunlight hours and store their excess energy. Some farmers in areas where sunlight is not an issue choose to sell their excess energy directly to the power companies. We discuss this process called ‘net metering’ in another article! For now, let’s run through the different ways you can store solar energy.
- Battery storage. This is without a doubt the most common way to store excess solar energy for later use. Although you can use traditional lead-acid batteries to achieve this, lithium-ion batteries are much more efficient, maintenance free, and last longer. Having a full rack of batteries charged and ready to run other important gear and equipment is an effective way to turn excess solar energy into working power regardless of the weather. If the cost of lithium-ion batteries is a barrier to entry, the lead-acid alternative is cheaper up front to get you started with storing solar energy.
- Thermal storage. Less common than battery storage for agricultural applications, thermal storage uses solar energy to bring a medium such as water to a high temperature. Later, the hot water can be used to generate electricity. The benefit here is that this heat can be stored long-term and be used on an as-needed basis during times of limited sunlight so that production can continue without incurring extra energy costs.
- Mechanical storage. Although this style of solar energy storage is more suitable for large, industrial applications, it can be deployed in some agricultural settings. The excess solar energy used to pump water to an elevation. When energy is needed, the water can be released to drive turbines that generate electricity. The beauty of this method is that it can generate a massive amount of electricity. The potential downside is that it takes a lot of resources to build the infrastructure necessary to have a system this size and it is not necessarily obtainable for the small- to medium-sized business.
Things to Consider Before Storing Solar Energy
Storing solar energy for your farm is a good idea no matter how you slice it. However, not every energy storage solution is right for you. Every farm and every farmer is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to storing your solar energy. Below are some things to consider before finding the right solar energy storage system for you.
- Upfront cost. Getting a solar energy storage solution up and running will certainly have a cost associated with it. However, no two systems are alike. For instance, a small battery rack can be set up in a way that is cost-effective for a solo practitioner. An industrial mechanical set up is a different story, often costing hundreds of thousands to set up and requiring more land and potential permitting. Make sure you understand the costs associated and what is attainable for you.
- Infrastructure and capex. Some solar energy storage solutions can take up an enormous amount of space. On top of that, depending on the set up, they will require routine maintenance to remain in good, working condition. Lastly, you want to make sure your capex budget is adjusted to include maintenance, upgrades, and repairs to any new system that is installed.
- Regulatory concerns. Depending on where you are in the United States, different states have different guidelines regarding solar energy and storage solutions. Farmers who are hoping to start storing their energy should educate themselves on state regulations to ensure they are operating safely and legally.
Final Thoughts on Whether Solar Energy Can Be Stored
The question “can solar energy be stored” is an easy one to answer. It absolutely can be and should be stored to make the most of your solar energy harvesting. Whether you are dealing with intermittent cloudiness and inclement weather, having stored energy on tap will ensure your operations are uninterrupted without having to rely on grid electricity for backup.
How Sun Farmer’s Group Can Help
Sun Farmer’s Group is the first true turnkey solution for agricultural solar energy. Our proprietary program has brought all of the in-house expertise to the table in grant writing, financing, tax credit monetization, installation, and so much more. Unlike other companies, Sun Farmer’s Group empowers farmers with a no-money down solution that greatly reduces and eventually eliminates your power bill altogether. The future is as bright as the sun, and we’ll help you turn it into power!
Get in Touch
If you’re ready to learn more about how Sun Farmer’s Group can help you put more money in your pocket, call 877-417-3222 today!
