BESS and EVs: future-proofing agribusinesses

Sponsored by RenEnergy

Farms that embrace solar energy and battery energy storage system solutions will ensure their energy security and remain competitive in the future, operating more independently from the grid.

BESS and EVs: future-proofing agribusinesses
A RenEnergy solar carport installation with EV-charging capability.
Photo: Supplied
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As energy demands due to electrification continue to rise globally, farmers and agribusinesses can adopt sustainable energy solutions to remain competitive.

Integrating battery energy storage system (BESS) solutions and electric vehicles (EVs) with solar energy offer a range of benefits that support resilient future energy planning.

Boosting business with a bess

The benefits of a BESS solution extend far beyond mitigating power disruptions. It helps by stabilising energy supply, cutting costs, and enhancing sustainability.

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BESS solutions allow farmers to store excess solar energy produced during daylight hours for use during peak periods when energy costs are highest. This strategic energy management ensures reliable, cost-effective power.

With global electricity demand and prices rising, the flexibility offered by BESS solutions is a game-changer. Farms are able to operate machinery during times when solar production is low, such as early in the morning.

By integrating BESS solutions, businesses can run essential equipment with stored solar energy, optimising efficiency and reducing waste.

For farms, especially those located in rural areas where ageing or insufficient grid infrastructure may limit energy supply and the ability to connect with renewable energy sources, BESS solutions help overcome these limitations and ensure farms remain operational even when the grid is constrained.

Electrification of fleets

The electrification of farm fleets, including tractors and logistics vehicles, is a key trend that will shape the future of agriculture.

By pairing EVs with solar-powered charging stations, farms can move away from fossil fuels, creating greener and more efficient operations. This shift not only brings environmental benefits but also significant cost savings over time.

Christine Bombal, international brand and marketing manager at RenEnergy, explains: “Electrification isn’t just about changing how we power our vehicles; it’s about fundamentally shifting how energy is managed.”

RenEnergy’s expertise goes beyond traditional solar installations. The company has been instrumental in designing and implementing solar carports and charging infrastructure for EVs internationally.

By using solar energy to power EVs, farms can create a self-sustaining energy ecosystem. This reduces reliance on the grid and ensures that operations continue running smoothly.

As consumer preferences shift towards eco-friendly products, and export markets increasingly demand sustainable practices, agribusinesses along the full value chain must embrace cleaner energy practices to remain competitive.

With renewable energy sources like solar power providing the necessary infrastructure for EV charging, farms can enhance their sustainability footprints, meet stringent export requirements, and align with global trends in environmental responsibility.

Power partner

RenEnergy’s forward-thinking approach and expertise in agri solar, BESS solutions, and EV infrastructure make it an ideal power partner.

With a proven track record in delivering tailored energy solutions, RenEnergy is well-positioned to help businesses meet today’s energy challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s needs.

As Bombal puts it: “The energy landscape is evolving rapidly. Those who invest in renewable energy today, are the ones that will thrive tomorrow.”

Email [email protected], phone 021 851 0685, or visit renenergy.co.za.

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