Farmlands FLEX to deliver solar microgrids for rural sector

Farmlands has announced a partnership with Blackcurrent to launch Farmlands FLEX, a solar and technology joint venture aimed at reshaping energy sourcing and management in New Zealand's rural sector.

Farmlands FLEX goes beyond solar panel installations by providing intelligent microgrid systems that are custom-built and managed to serve the specific requirements of working farms and orchards.

The initiative seeks to supply farmers with greater energy independence, aiming to reduce power bills, maintain essential operations during outages, and potentially generate an additional income stream.

Farmlands Chief Executive Officer Tanya Houghton said, "Rising energy costs are a huge concern for our customers. Finding solutions for on-farm energy needs have been a part of Farmlands' strategy for a long time."

To support the profitability and productivity of farmers and growers, Farmlands offers five-year electricity pricing certainty through its partnership with electricity provider Meridian. In addition, Farmlands' fuel joint venture, Fern Energy, is now the country's largest rural bulk fuel provider after three years of operation.

With Farmlands FLEX set to become a significant element of its wider service offering, Farmlands is positioning the new system as a response to ongoing industry challenges regarding energy reliability and affordability.

Houghton stated, "The on-farm applications for Farmlands FLEX are wide-reaching - the 5am dairy shed power surge, keeping irrigation running during blackouts and protecting frost fans when electricity isn't available or there's an outage. Farmlands FLEX address real farm challenges."

The new solution will be formally launched at National Fieldays, but Farmlands and Blackcurrent have indicated that information and consultation opportunities are available now for interested farmers and growers.

Among the immediate benefits highlighted for Farmlands FLEX are up to 40 percent reductions in electricity costs, operational continuity during power outages, and the conversion of power expenses into a tangible on-farm asset. There is also scope for customers to generate new income through the sale of surplus energy to the power grid.

The company cited examples where farmers have targeted electricity savings in the thousands of dollars per month, and one recent estimate indicated an annual savings of approximately NZD $55,000 for a single customer.

Houghton encouraged farmers to begin their own assessments. "No need to wait for Fieldays, grab your power bill and call us to start talking about the options for your farm or orchard."