Farms don’t just have to grow crops—they can also generate clean, renewable energy. Agrivoltaics lets farmers do both, using the same land for solar power and agriculture. Here, we’ve selected six standout UK farms that prove it’s possible to have a thriving farm and a productive solar array at the same time.
Case Study 1 – Sunny Vale Farm, Cornwall, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Sunny Vale integrates solar panels with grazing land for sheep. Panels are mounted on elevated frames, allowing livestock to move freely underneath. The layout is carefully planned so that the sheep have shaded areas while the grass beneath continues to grow efficiently.
Solar Technology Used:
The farm uses fixed-tilt photovoltaic panels mounted 3 metres above the ground. The system has a capacity of 250 kW, supplying energy to the farm and exporting surplus to the local grid. Panel orientation was optimised for maximum sunlight capture without compromising pasture growth.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Sheep benefit from natural shade in summer.
- Reduced heat stress leads to higher weight gain and better wool quality.
- Minimal disruption to grass growth under panels.
Solar Benefits:
- Annual production of ~270,000 kWh.
- Contributes 50% of farm electricity demand, reducing operating costs.
Challenges Faced:
- Initial investment higher due to elevated frames.
- Shading patterns require careful pasture rotation planning.
Results & Insights:
The dual-use approach at Sunny Vale demonstrates that livestock farming and solar energy generation can coexist effectively. Sheep health improved noticeably due to shaded grazing areas, while the farm benefited from reduced energy costs. Overall, the farm achieved a balanced synergy between agricultural productivity and renewable energy generation, providing a replicable model for similar farms.
Case Study 2 – Greenfield Orchards, Kent, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Greenfield Orchards combines solar panels with fruit production. Panels are spaced above rows of apple and pear trees, allowing sunlight to reach crops while creating a partial shading effect that protects fruits from extreme heat. Farmers also use the area beneath panels to cultivate shade-tolerant herbs.
Solar Technology Used:
The orchard employs a 150 kW bifacial solar system mounted on low-elevation trackers. These panels follow the sun’s movement to optimise electricity generation while limiting shadow impact on trees. The system is grid-connected, supplying energy for irrigation pumps and farm machinery.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Partial shading reduces sunburn damage on fruit.
- Herb growth under panels increases overall farm yield.
- Improved soil moisture retention under shaded areas.
Solar Benefits:
- Produces approximately 160,000 kWh annually.
- Supports irrigation and reduces reliance on grid electricity.
Challenges Faced:
- Tracker installation needed precise calibration to prevent crop shading.
- Initial maintenance requires monitoring both crops and solar panels.
Results & Insights:
Greenfield Orchards demonstrates that orchards can be harmoniously combined with solar energy without reducing fruit yields. The partial shading benefits crop quality and farm biodiversity. The farm shows how careful planning of panel placement can maximise both agricultural output and renewable energy generation.
Case Study 3 – Meadowbrook Greenhouses, Yorkshire, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Meadowbrook integrates solar panels above glass greenhouses, allowing crops to grow under filtered sunlight. The panels provide shade that moderates internal greenhouse temperatures. This arrangement allows year-round crop production with reduced cooling needs.
Solar Technology Used:
Semi-transparent photovoltaic panels are installed above the greenhouse roofs. The 200 kW system provides electricity for lighting, heating, and ventilation. Excess energy is exported to the local grid.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Maintains optimal temperatures for sensitive vegetables.
- Reduces heat stress and water use inside greenhouses.
- Enables consistent crop quality throughout the year.
Solar Benefits:
- Annual production of ~210,000 kWh.
- Reduces energy costs by powering greenhouse climate control.
Challenges Faced:
- Integration with greenhouse ventilation required custom panel spacing.
- Cleaning panels without disturbing crops is labour-intensive.
Results & Insights:
Meadowbrook shows that greenhouse farming can efficiently incorporate solar power to reduce operational costs. Crop yields remained consistent while electricity expenses dropped significantly. The farm highlights the synergy between climate-controlled agriculture and renewable energy production.
Case Study 4 – Hilltop Vineyard, Sussex, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Hilltop Vineyard integrates elevated solar panels above grapevines. The panels provide shade during the hottest parts of the day, improving grape quality. Space beneath panels is also used for cover crops to enhance soil health.
Solar Technology Used:
The vineyard uses a 100 kW fixed-tilt photovoltaic array elevated 2.5 metres above the ground. Energy produced powers irrigation and processing facilities. The design ensures minimal shading on vines during morning and afternoon sun.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Reduces heat stress on grape clusters.
- Encourages beneficial cover crop growth.
- Improves water retention and soil fertility.
Solar Benefits:
- Produces roughly 110,000 kWh per year.
- Powers essential vineyard operations, cutting electricity costs.
Challenges Faced:
- Panel height needed careful alignment to avoid interfering with machinery.
- Monitoring for pest and bird activity under panels is necessary.
Results & Insights:
Hilltop Vineyard demonstrates how vineyards can benefit from dual-use agrivoltaics. Grapes matured with less sunburn damage, and the farm gained substantial energy savings. The case illustrates that even small-scale vineyards can leverage solar technology effectively without compromising crop quality.
Case Study 5 – Riverbank Poultry Farm, Norfolk, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Riverbank Poultry Farm combines free-range chicken rearing with solar arrays. Panels are elevated above the run, providing shade and shelter. This setup allows chickens to roam freely while staying protected from extreme weather.
Solar Technology Used:
The farm employs 120 kW fixed-tilt solar panels mounted on durable steel frames. The electricity generated powers lighting, feeding systems, and water pumps. Surplus energy is exported to the grid to generate additional revenue.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Chickens stay cooler in summer, improving health and egg quality.
- Reduced stress results in higher egg production.
- Land beneath panels continues to support pasture growth.
Solar Benefits:
- Produces around 130,000 kWh per year.
- Reduces operating costs and increases sustainability.
Challenges Faced:
- Installation required careful planning to allow chicken movement.
- Panel cleaning must consider poultry safety.
Results & Insights:
Riverbank demonstrates that poultry farming and solar energy can coexist seamlessly. Chickens benefited from shade and shelter, while the farm lowered electricity costs. The project illustrates a model that other free-range farms could replicate to improve animal welfare and sustainability.
Case Study 6 – Valley Mixed-Farm, Herefordshire, UK
Type of Agrivoltaics Setup:
Valley Mixed-Farm combines arable crops and livestock under a single solar installation. Elevated panels allow tractors to operate beneath while sheep graze intermittently. Crops such as wheat and barley are planted in alternating rows to optimise sunlight exposure.
Solar Technology Used:
A 300 kW dual-use fixed-tilt photovoltaic system is installed on raised frames. Panels provide power for farm operations, including irrigation and machinery. The layout was designed to balance shading effects and maximise both energy and crop yield.
Agricultural Benefits:
- Livestock gain shaded areas, reducing heat stress.
- Crop yields remain stable despite partial shading.
- Soil moisture retention improves under panel coverage.
Solar Benefits:
- Annual energy output of ~320,000 kWh.
- Substantially reduces reliance on external electricity supply.
Challenges Faced:
- Panel placement required careful farm workflow planning.
- Maintenance of both crops and panels needed coordination.
Results & Insights:
Valley Mixed-Farm highlights the versatility of agrivoltaics for farms with multiple agricultural activities. The integrated approach maintained crop productivity while providing renewable energy. This case exemplifies how careful design can maximise the combined benefits of farming and solar energy.
How We Picked These Amazing Farms
We wanted to make sure the farms on our list really show how agriculture and solar energy can work hand in hand. Here’s the approach we took, step by step:
- Looked for farms actually using both crops or livestock and solar panels
We only included farms where the land is genuinely dual-use. That means either crops growing under panels, livestock grazing, or greenhouses benefiting from solar electricity. - Checked the type of solar technology
We focused on farms using panels that suit their specific setup—like elevated panels for animals or semi-transparent panels for greenhouses. It’s about showing smart solutions that really work in practice. - Considered the benefits for agriculture and energy
We wanted to highlight farms that aren’t just producing electricity, but also improving crop yields, livestock health, or overall farm efficiency.. - Noted the challenges they faced
Farming isn’t always straightforward, and installing solar has its hurdles. We included farms that overcame real-world problems, so readers can learn from their experience. - Looked for clear, inspiring results
Finally, we picked farms that could show tangible results—like energy saved, yields maintained or improved, or animals thriving. This makes the stories both believable and motivating.
The Bottom Line
From greenhouses with semi-transparent panels to vineyards that benefit from shaded grapevines, these farms highlight the many ways agrivoltaics can work. Each case study demonstrates that careful design and planning can deliver real results for both energy and agriculture.
Ready to see how your farm could join the renewable revolution? Contact Perfect Sense Energy and explore your options today.
FAQs
What is agrivoltaics?
Agrivoltaics is the practice of combining agriculture with solar energy production on the same land. It allows farmers to grow crops or raise livestock while generating electricity from solar panels. This dual-use approach helps maximise land efficiency and provides extra income through renewable energy.
How do farms benefit from agrivoltaics?
Farms benefit in multiple ways: crops can receive partial shade to reduce heat stress, livestock can graze under panels, and energy costs can be lowered by generating electricity onsite. It also improves land use efficiency and can enhance soil and microclimate conditions for agriculture.
Are agrivoltaic systems suitable for all types of farms?
Not every farm is suitable, but most can find a way to make it work with the right setup. Systems can be adapted for crops, orchards, vineyards, livestock, or greenhouses, depending on the farm’s size, layout, and energy needs. Careful planning ensures both agriculture and solar energy production thrive.
What challenges do farms face when installing solar panels?
Challenges include initial investment costs, designing panels to avoid shading sensitive crops, maintaining solar equipment, and integrating panels with farm machinery or livestock movement. Proper planning and professional installation help overcome these hurdles effectively.
Can agrivoltaics increase farm profits?
Yes, agrivoltaics can boost profits by reducing electricity bills, generating extra income through selling surplus energy, and improving crop or livestock productivity. Farms often see a strong return on investment when both energy and agricultural benefits are maximised.
