Farmers across South Africa are grappling with the escalating costs and unreliability of traditional energy sources. Dependency on Eskom has resulted in significant pain points, including soaring line fees and transformer costs that can vary from R4000 to R30 000 monthly. Electricity costs are notably higher in rural areas, posing a further economic burden on farming operations, while unpredictable power supply can lead to expensive equipment damage or product losses. 

These challenges drive a growing interest among farmers to explore off-grid solutions, seeking energy independence and stability in their operations. However, setting up the right solar solution can be a challenging process. Probenergy, a division of Probe Group, is helping farmers to harness the benefits of solar energy, offering tailored, cost-effective solutions that address the issues they face.

Probenergy Product Director Grant van Houten says that solar energy offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the sustainability and financial viability of agricultural operations. These include:

Reduce your farm’s operating costs: For many farms, electricity is a major expense, particularly during periods of high energy usage, such as operating irrigation systems, powering milking machines, or maintaining climate control in greenhouses. By installing solar power systems, farmers can reduce their reliance on costly grid electricity, says van Houten.

“Over time, the savings from solar can be substantial, with systems potentially paying for themselves within a few years. With a strategic approach to solar installation, farmers can cut costs efficiently and reinvest savings back into improving their operations.”

Benefit from tax savings: Solar installation is not only a cost-saving measure but also a tax-efficient investment. Under Section 12B of the Income Tax Act in South Africa, farmers can deduct 125% of the cost of a solar power system against taxable income in the first year of operation, for systems installed before 28 February 2025. “By capitalising on these incentives, farmers can enhance their cash flow and accelerate the financial return on their solar investment, making solar power an even more appealing option for agricultural enterprises,” says van Houten.

Solar will future-proof your farm for the next generation: As electricity prices are expected to rise, investing in solar can safeguard your farm’s economic future. This infrastructure can serve as a legacy for future generations and enhance the property’s value if you plan to sell. “A solar system isn’t just a present-day solution; it’s a forward-thinking investment for whatever the future holds in the farming sector,” says van Houten. “Probenergy is also able to advise on advances, including Small Embedded Solar Generation (SSEG) systems that allow for grid energy feedback.”

Solar is a low-maintenance and low-risk investment: Compared to the demands of traditional farm machinery, solar panels require minimal maintenance. Quality installations include robust warranties, offering further peace of mind. Van Houten says, “The low-maintenance nature of solar, combined with comprehensive warranty coverage, makes it an attractive, low-risk investment for any farming enterprise.”

While solar energy is a promising solution for farmers, van Houten outlines specific challenges related to expenses, maintenance and effective battery storage that must be addressed effectively by solar providers. Probenergy has developed several strategies to tackle these challenges.

Start with the energy audit – scoping the right system

According to van Houten, an essential step in adopting solar energy is the energy audit. “We prioritise this process to ensure accurate assessments of energy needs, so that farmers do not over or under-invest in solar systems. An energy audit involves analysing consumption patterns and identifying inefficiencies, providing crucial data for designing an optimal solar system. In the context of agriculture, this means using advanced tools to monitor energy use across the farm, ensuring that solar solutions meet specific operational needs without over- or under-investing in infrastructure.”

Addressing solar costs and maintenance

One of the primary concerns is the initial cost of installation and the maintenance of solar panels and battery systems. Overcoming these financial challenges demands a strategic approach, innovative financing options, and a thorough understanding of the long-term economic advantages of solar energy adoption, says van Houten.

“Our goal is to ensure that farmers can access reliable and sustainable energy solutions that are both cost-effective and tailored to withstand the harsh agricultural environment. We offer flexible financing plans and rent-to-own options with our partners to lower the upfront costs. We also ensure that we install Tier 1 solar panels and reliable, efficient and durable battery and inverter solutions, ensuring minimal energy loss and optimal performance year-round.”

Advanced energy storage

Solar energy is dependent on weather conditions, making reliable energy storage options critical to ensure a steady power supply. Farmers need systems that are resilient to weather variations and are capable of storing excess energy efficiently for later use. ​As part the of the Probe Group, battery experts for over 60 years, Probenergy solutions include globally sourced advanced inverter and battery systems that can store surplus solar energy.

“We specialise in designing and delivering energy storage solutions that incorporate advanced technologies such as supercapacitors, maximising power efficiency and return on investment.”

By transitioning to solar energy, farmers stand to not only reduce expenses and benefit from tax incentives but also secure their operations against future uncertainties. Solar power represents a sustainable choice that paves the way for a more secure and prosperous future in agriculture.

“We’re committed to walk the road with farmers and provide the best solutions to transition successfully to solar energy,” says van Houten. “From initial energy audits to the design and implementation of advanced solar systems, we can provide holistic solutions for a more sustainable and cost-effective farming future.”