Two of Belcher Farms’ key agricultural sites, Newlands Farm and Grange Farm, have taken a major step towards long-term sustainability and energy independence with the successful installation of rooftop solar PV systems, delivered by Absolar.
The 137 kWp solar installation, featuring 305 Tier 1 Solar panels, is already producing enough electricity to meet over 80% of the sites’ combined energy needs, saving the farm group an estimated £27,000 annually and reducing carbon emissions by over 34 tonnes per year.
Faced with rising electricity prices and increasing pressure to improve environmental performance, Belcher Farms sought a long-term energy solution that could provide both cost savings and environmental benefits. The mixed-use farm sites, which house livestock, agricultural machinery, and operations, were prime candidates for on-site solar generation.
“Many farms across the UK have energy costs climbing year after year,” said project liaison Jen Varghese. “We wanted to help farmers take control of that, not just for the bottom line, but to be part of the solution on climate.”
Using cutting-edge Remote Solar Assessment platform, Absolar was able to quickly assess multiple Belcher farm sites and identify the highest-impact opportunities. Newlands and Grange Farms were prioritised based on their high energy usage and physical suitability for solar PV.
The installed systems include:
The system was completed and commissioned in just four weeks, with final delivery in May 2025 following surveys, inspections, and design work carried out in late 2024 and early 2025.
While the energy savings and projected payback period of under five years are compelling, the project is also seen as a broader statement of intent by Belcher Farms.
“This is part of our commitment to steward the land responsibly for future generations,” said the farm’s representative. “The solar installation is one piece of a wider strategy to build resilience across our operations.”
Absolar secured a preferential export tariff for the farm group, ensuring that surplus summer generation contributes to winter energy bills — further improving financial returns.
With similar installations now being scoped across additional sites in the Belcher Farms estate — particularly in the high-demand dairy sector — the success of Newlands and Grange Farms is seen as a template for broader adoption across UK agriculture.
"Renewables like solar give farmers the chance to cut costs, reduce emissions and become more resilient — it's a win-win for the farm and the planet."
— Minette Batters, NFU President
Absolar helps organisations cut carbon and costs with data-led solar assessments and smart energy solutions. From remote analysis to full project delivery, Absolar supports clients through every stage of their solar journey.
Absolar’s team combines advanced remote surveying with meticulous project planning and stakeholder coordination - a critical factor in delivering safe, cost-effective installations at scale.
As this project progresses, we’ll continue to share updates and outcomes; and showcase how clean energy can work hand-in-hand with thoughtful design, safety, and long-term value for businesses and communities.
If you would like to know more about your building's solar potential, you can request a free Remote Solar Survey here, or contact our friendly solar engineering team.
📍 Visit us: Engineering Centre, Southampton Science Park, Southampton, SO16 7NP
📞 Phone: 02382 680 106
✉️ Email: info@absolar.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.absolar.co.uk
👉 Or use our AI-powered solar calculator to request a Remote Solar Survey report for your property.
Follow us for updates: LinkedIn
© 2024 Absolar Solutions Limited
