ProStar Energy found itself called upon by the friendly people at Elm Tree Farm who were looking for a way to reduce the significant energy costs associated with running a working farm.
With substantial electricity demands across machinery, lighting, and day-to-day operations, the site was well placed to benefit from a rooftop solar PV system. Our team carried out a thorough site assessment and designed a 24 kWp installation mounted directly onto the barn roof, providing clean, low-cost energy right where it was needed most.
Client: Elm Tree Farm
System Size: 24 kWp
Cost: £19,783
Annual Savings: £4,155 (first year)
Estimated Payback Period: 4 years 6 months (21% ROI)
Carbon Offset: 5 tonnes CO₂ annually
Challenges and Solutions
Agricultural rooftops present their own set of installation challenges. Corrugated metal barn roofs require specialist fixings and careful load calculations to ensure the mounting system is both secure and weathertight. As such, our engineers assessed the structural integrity of the barn before any work began, confirming the roof was suitable and identifying the optimal panel layout to maximise generation without placing unnecessary load on the building.
Working on an operational farm also meant the installation needed to be planned carefully around daily activities. Our team co-ordinated closely with the farm to keep disruption to an absolute minimum, completing the project on time and within the agreed budget.
Key Results
The completed 24 kWp system is now generating clean electricity directly for Elm Tree Farm, delivering measurable results from day one. First-year savings of £4,155 represent a meaningful reduction in the farm's energy costs, with those savings expected to grow year on year as grid electricity prices continue to rise.
With an estimated payback period of just 4 years and 6 months and a return on investment of 21%, the financial case for this project is straightforward. The system also offsets 5 tonnes of CO₂ annually, supporting the farm's broader environmental credentials in a practical, measurable way.
Installed using high-quality components and backed by ProStar Energy's aftercare service, the system is built to deliver strong performance for decades to come. Ongoing monitoring means any changes in output are identified and addressed quickly, protecting the long-term return on this investment.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates how commercial solar can deliver real, lasting value for agricultural businesses. Farms carry consistent energy loads and often have large, unshaded roof space available, making them well suited to solar PV installations that generate a strong return.
With over 50 years of expertise and a full turn-key service covering everything from site survey to aftercare, ProStar Energy is well placed to support agricultural operations looking to take control of their energy costs.
If your farm or rural business is ready to explore what solar could offer, get in touch with our team on 03316 302 225 or complete our contact form to arrange a free site survey.
