The Smart Energy Company has partnered with Discovery Farm Woodstock, becoming their first Smart Energy Partner.
The project includes the installation of a NOREASTER micro solar farm and a utility shed for electrical and battery devices.
Aimed at demonstrating renewable energy technology, this initiative will also promote sustainable farming practices. Educational activities, including simulated power outages and real-time energy monitoring, will enhance public awareness and knowledge about renewable energy.
The NOREASTER micro solar farm installed by The Smart Energy Company at the Discovery Farm Woodstock site offers farmers significant benefits. It serves as an educational platform demonstrating the practical advantages of solar power and backup battery systems in farming.
Farmers can observe firsthand how these technologies operate, particularly during power outages, appreciating their reliability and cost-efficiency. The setup encourages farmers to ask questions and witness the technology in action, fostering a deeper understanding of its benefits and applications. This hands-on experience empowers farmers to make informed decisions about integrating renewable energy solutions into their operations, reducing costs and improving sustainability.
Project Report
NOREASTER Micro Solar Farm and Generac Battery System
In the summer of 2024, The Smart Energy Company collaborated with the Discovery Farm at the Outdoor Farm Show to unveil the NOREASTER micro solar farm. This 10kW solar installation, paired with an 18kWh Generac battery system, serves as a demonstration research project aimed at showcasing the transformative potential of clean energy in agriculture.
Background and Objective
Farms are increasingly looking for sustainable energy solutions to offset rising electricity costs and reduce environmental impacts. The NOREASTER micro solar farm addresses these challenges by offering a system that generates renewable energy without encroaching on valuable farmland or crop yields. Our goal is to inspire farmers by demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of on-farm clean energy generation and storage.
Demonstration Setup and Protocols
The micro solar farm installation powers a mini-barn equipped with essential devices, including lighting, internet, security systems, air conditioning, a computer, a large wall-mounted TV monitor, refrigeration, and power tools. The Generac battery system acts as a backup and a cost-saving tool, designed to smooth energy consumption patterns and mitigate Time-of-Use (TOU) charges. Over time, we plan to replicate real farm energy usage by adding additional electrical devices such as irrigation pumps, fans, and other agricultural equipment.
Key Findings from the First Year
Early results from the project have exceeded expectations. Over a 24-hour cycle, the NOREASTER system consistently generated surplus energy while powering all installed devices. Even during continuous overnight operation, the battery maintained a charge of over 94%. This performance underscores the installation’s capacity to meet and exceed typical on-farm energy needs.
Future Directions
In 2025, the project will explore the integration of higher-energy-demand equipment to more closely mirror real-world agricultural usage. Additionally, the team is investigating innovative applications for surplus energy, including on-site energy storage solutions and alternative uses beyond feeding excess power back to the grid for net metering credits. These efforts aim to maximize the economic and operational benefits for farmers.
Conclusion
The NOREASTER micro solar farm represents a critical step forward in clean energy solutions for agriculture. By delivering reliable power generation and cost-saving energy storage, it demonstrates how farms can enhance their sustainability and profitability. This multi-year project will continue to provide valuable insights into the scalability and adaptability of renewable energy systems in varying climatic and operational conditions.
Call to Action
The Smart Energy Company invites farmers and industry professionals to follow the progress of the NOREASTER demonstration on the Discovery Farm website. Together, we can pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future in agriculture.
Update submitted by Smart Energy Company
