Why small farms should consider solar energy
Amid rising electricity prices and unreliable grid supply, owners of small farms in Ukraine are actively seeking cost-effective and dependable energy solutions. One of the most promising options is installing solar power systems. This is especially relevant for remote agricultural sites where access to centralized electricity is limited or unavailable.
Solar panels provide autonomy, help reduce utility bills, and remain unaffected by power outages. Farmers can keep operations running smoothly even during peak loads — from feeding livestock to cooling milk. And all this comes without the noise and fuel costs of diesel generators.
Among other options, a low-cost solar power plant in Zhytomyr for agriculture can become a strategic investment that pays off in just a few years and continues to serve for decades.
What to consider when choosing a solar system
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution: each farm has its own unique set of needs, land area, and equipment. However, several key factors can help narrow down your options.
Power capacity is the main parameter
When selecting a system, it’s important to know how much energy your farm consumes daily. Heating greenhouses, lighting, water pumps, machinery — all of this adds up to your daily load and determines the required capacity of your solar installation.
For example:
- A farm with two greenhouses and an irrigation system might need 10–20 kW
- A livestock complex — from 30 kW and above
- A combined farm with cold storage — up to 50 kW
Fixed or modular?
If your farm is growing or regularly changing in structure, you might want to consider modular systems that can be expanded or partially relocated. Still, most farms prefer stationary installations — reliable, cost-effective, and built to last.
Benefits of solar energy for farms
- Full autonomy and energy independence
- Minimal maintenance costs
- Long panel lifespan (20–25 years)
- Eligibility for feed-in tariff programs
- Increase in property value
For farmers in central Ukraine, particularly in Poltava, a 1 MW solar power plant turnkey price in Poltava can be an attractive option — one that not only provides electricity but also creates a potential new income stream from selling surplus power to the grid.
Choosing equipment: other important aspects
Inverters and batteries
The inverter converts DC into AC, ensuring compatibility with your equipment. Its quality directly affects the system’s reliability. In livestock farming, stable operation is crucial — sudden power cuts to ventilation or lighting can stress the animals.
For 24/7 operations, battery storage is worth considering. Batteries keep your farm running at night and on cloudy days. While they increase the system's cost, they also significantly improve reliability.
Monitoring and maintenance
Modern solar systems often come with remote monitoring capabilities — showing real-time performance data on your smartphone or computer. This convenience helps you quickly respond to any performance issues.
Mistakes to avoid
- Choosing based on someone’s recommendation without proper calculations — this can result in over- or underperformance
- Installing panels without considering roof orientation or shading — this can reduce efficiency by up to 30%
- Skipping maintenance — solar systems require regular checkups just like any other equipment
Conclusion: invest now or wait?
Solar energy isn’t just a trendy innovation. For small farms in Ukraine, it’s a practical step toward energy independence. It helps cut costs, minimize risks, and unlock new growth opportunities.
If you’re wondering which solar power plant is better: 100, 300, or 500 kW, don’t hesitate to consult with professionals. A proper audit, tailored system design, and reliable installation service ensure that your farm gets a system that truly works — and brings tangible benefits for years to come.
