Once the solar feed-in tariff ends in December 2016, NSW vineyard Jarrett’s Wines will need to redeploy the power generated by its solar PV arrays. Planned solar battery storage, electric vehicles, integrated pumps and a new coolroom could save the business $10,000-$40,000 p.a.
Sundrop Farms’ high-tech hydroponic fruit and vegetable production system eliminates the need for fertile soil, groundwater or grid electricity supplies, greatly reducing input costs and environmental risks.
Get practical advice and tips on solar-powered pumping from irrigator Andrew Gill, pump expert Jim Purcell and former ABC Rural journo Bruce Reynolds at this trio of free hour-long teleconferences in August.
No. This isn't about going off grid. But there are reasons why Elon Musk has set his sights on Australia as one of the first markets to launch his praised battery systems (the PowerWall and PowerPacks). And that is that, for some, the numbers do add up. Let me show you how.
Food wastage is a major drain on planetary resources and farm income, and reducing it is a global priority, contends the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization. Forward-thinking Australians are rising to the challenge.
With US$63 million in USDA loans and grants set to go to farmers and rural businesses transitioning to renewables, the Obama Administration hopes to help America’s struggling farmers REAP more of what they sow.
Potentially, solar PV power can replace much of the mains electricity and diesel farmers use to pump water for stock, domestic and irrigation. But is it the right solution for your operation? Get the info you need in these free hands-on guides to renewables and solar PV pumping, just launched by NSWFA and OEH.
