Thursday 8th of May 2025 | Posted In:

Giving you the power

Ready to expand your renewable horizons? NFU Energy was able to support P Watson Jones Ltd. to boost renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on the grid.

Well-established agricultural business P Watson Jones Ltd. approached NFU Energy to enhance their renewable energy capacity and reduce reliance on the grid. Specialising in poultry production and grain farming, the business operates eight biomass heated sheds and had already taken steps towards sustainability with a 99 kW solar PV system. Their goal was ambitious: to offset an additional 311,000 kWh annually. This case study explores how NFU Energy’s comprehensive services supported them in achieving their energy objectives.

At NFU Energy, we can offer a dual approach to renewable energy adoption. Our feasibility study service provides detailed insights into energy usage, helping businesses identify the most suitable technologies to meet their unique demands. Once a strategy is in place, our Renewable Energy Solutions team connects clients with trusted installers, ensuring a seamless transition from planning to implementation. These tailored services empower agricultural and commercial businesses to make informed decisions and successfully implement sustainable energy systems.

Feasibility Study

P Watson Jones Ltd. wanted to reduce their energy consumption by 311,000 kWh per annum. NFU Energy's Energy Systems and Projects team conducted a thorough feasibility study to assess the site's potential. It involved:

  • Evaluating energy consumption patterns, including data from variable speed drives and LED lighting already in use.
  • Exploring various renewable energy options such as solar PV, wind, and anaerobic digestion.
  • Modelling system sizes ranging from 50 kW to 500 kW, with a focus on financial and operational benefits. The study concluded that an expanded 200 kW solar PV system would be the most effective solution to meet the farm's energy demands and deliver optimal financial returns. The farm already had a biomass boiler on-site, which, combined with solar PV, demonstrated their commitment to becoming a more sustainable business.

Renewable Energy Solutions NFU Energy's Renewable Energy Solutions team took the lead, collaborating with Mypower. The key steps were:

  • Installer Selection: NFU Energy evaluated multiple installers. Mypower was chosen for their proven track record in commercial scale solar installations. "NFU Energy helped us assess a variety of installers and guided us through the process, making us confident that Mypower was the perfect choice," said P Watson Jones Ltd.
  • Planning and Execution: Timing was critical to avoid disrupting the farm's operations, particularly in the broiler sheds. Close coordination ensured the installation aligned with both the farm's and Mypower's schedules.
  • Overcoming Challenges: In response to the new generation application, the local distribution network operator (DNO) initially required additional protection hardware and strict limits on electricity export. Mypower negotiated with the DNO to achieve the best outcome for the farm. “By challenging the DNO’s initial response, we secured unrestricted export of excess electricity and avoided unnecessary costs. The result was a lower installation cost and a future income stream for the farm,” said Neil Stott from Mypower.

The new solar PV will provide 170,815 kWh to the farm, with 77,124 kWh being used onsite and 93,691 kWh being exported (and sold) to the grid.

Around 40% of the site's sizeable annual electricity needs will now be met by electricity produced by their rooftop solar PV systems. This not only significantly reduces the farm's electricity bill with the solar electricity produced at approximately 5p/kWh versus the grid price of around 20p/kWh but also provides a level of insulation against future price rises. The combined systems will help the farm avoid nearly 54 tonnes of CO2 emissions each year. This latest solar PV system will pay for itself in under four years.

"I would absolutely recommend NFU Energy's services," said P Watson Jones Ltd. "They look at your energy demand, assess the farm, and provide tailored solutions without trying to sell you anything generic."

Conclusion

P Watson Jones Ltd.'s journey underscores the value of NFU Energy's integrated approach to renewable energy. From comprehensive feasibility assessments to seamless project delivery, our services empower businesses to make informed, sustainable choices.
By combining technical expertise with trusted partnerships, NFU Energy continues to lead the way in renewable energy solutions for the commercial and agricultural sector.

P Watson Jones Ltd: "NFU Energy's feasibility study was excellent—thorough, clear, and instrumental in helping us make the right decision. Their support throughout the process made us confident in selecting the right installer and achieving our energy goals."
Mypower: "This project exemplifies how tailored renewable energy solutions can transform agricultural operations. NFU Energy's detailed study guided our approach, ensuring the system met the unique demands of poultry and grain farming."