Solar energy is fast becoming one of the most popular renewable energy sources worldwide. In Spain, more and more farms are taking advantage of solar energy to reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. This article will explain the different applications of solar energy on farms and how ground-mounted structures can be a low-impact option for the installation of solar farms.

Advantages of solar energy on farms

Installing solar panels offers a range of advantages. The most noteworthy are:

  • Reduced energy costs: Solar energy can help significantly reduce energy costs on farms. By harnessing the sun’s energy, farm owners can reduce their reliance on grid power and save money on their energy bills.
  • Reduced carbon footprint: Solar energy is a clean and renewable means of generating energy, which means that it does not produce greenhouse gas emissions. By using solar energy, farms can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the fight against climate change.
  • Generating additional revenues: Solar energy can also generate additional revenue for farms. By installing solar farms and selling the energy generated back to the grid, farm owners can generate additional revenue that can help improve the profitability of their business.

Applications of solar energy on farms

There are many ways in which solar energy can be harnessed on farms. Some of the most common applications include:

  • Irrigation: this is an essential part of farming, but it can also be one of a farm’s biggest energy uses. By using solar energy to power irrigation systems, farms can significantly reduce their energy costs.
  • Lighting: Farm operations often need lighting to operate at night. By using solar energy to power lighting systems, farm owners can reduce energy costs.
  • Air conditioning: another need on many farms. By using solar energy to power air conditioning systems, farm owners can reduce their energy bill costs and reduce their carbon footprint.

Ground-anchored structures as a low-impact option

Ground-anchored structures are an increasingly popular option for the installation of solar panels on farms. These are characterised by being anchored directly to the ground using poles that are driven into the ground, making them a low-impact and long-lasting option.

Compared to other mounting options such as elevated structures, ground-anchored structures have notable advantages. Firstly, they are much simpler and quicker to install, which means lower costs. Also, their maintenance is minimal as they do not require adjustments to their orientation to follow the movement of the sun.

Another major advantage of these structures is that they allow optimal use of the land, as they do not take up much space and do not impede farming activities. Their installation can also contribute to soil protection by preventing erosion and compaction that can occur with other mounting systems.

How solar energy can improve the quality of farming products:

Solar energy can not only improve energy efficiency and reduce costs, but can also have a positive impact on the quality of farming products. For example, in the case of agriculture, solar energy can be used to power precision irrigation systems where it is not possible to connect to an existing electricity grid. This permits a more efficient use of water and a better distribution of nutrients in the soil, which can improve crop yields and quality.

In livestock farming, solar energy can be used to power ventilation and heating systems that can improve air quality and reduce heat stress in animals, which can have a positive impact on their health and welfare, improving productivity and product quality.

The importance of innovation in Spanish farming:

Farming is a key sector in the Spanish economy, but it also faces many challenges, such as climate change, global competition and the growing demand for more sustainable and healthier products. In this context, innovation has become a priority for the sector, and solar energy can play a key role in this regard.

A photovoltaic installation in the field can improve energy efficiency and reduce costs, which can free up resources for innovation in other areas.

The installation of solar panels as a sustainable and profitable business opportunity.

It is important to note that installing solar panels on farms can also contribute to preserving the environment. By using solar energy to meet their energy needs, these farms reduce their reliance on non-renewable energy sources, such as oil and gas, which are highly polluting.

Installing solar panels on these farms can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By generating clean, renewable energy, it avoids the emission of large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, which are the main cause of climate change.

In summary, installing solar panels in the field is a smart and cost-effective solution to meet the energy needs of farms. It reduces long-term energy costs, improves sustainability and efficiency, and contributes to environmental protection and the fight against climate change. In addition, there are different practical applications of solar energy in the field, such as cooling and water pumping, which can significantly improve the efficiency of farms.