Project Details
- Client: M Holmes Ltd (Poultry Farm)
- Location: Friskney
- Contractor: Coastal Electrical Services & Renewable Energy
Project Overview
Coastal Electrical Services & Renewable Energy were appointed to design and install a ground-mounted solar PV and battery storage system for a small poultry farm operated by M Holmes Ltd in Friskney.
The aim of the project was to significantly reduce the farm’s reliance on grid electricity, offset rising energy costs associated with poultry housing, and introduce on-site energy storage to maximise self-consumption.
System Design & Installation
This installation was designed to provide reliable renewable generation suited to agricultural energy demands, particularly for ventilation, lighting, feeding systems, and environmental controls.
🌞 Solar PV Array
• Installation of 72 × 420W solar panels
• Total system capacity of 30.24kW
• Ground-mounted system installed using a ground anchor bolt framework, removing the need for large concrete bases and reducing ground disturbance
• Optimised panel layout for maximum solar gain and ease of maintenance
⚙️ Groundworks & Cabling
• Excavation and installation of cable trenches from the array location to the main electrical distribution point
• Installation of suitably rated SWA cabling and protection systems for long-term durability in an agricultural environment
🔌 Electrical Infrastructure Upgrade
• Installation of a new 3-phase distribution board to accommodate the solar and battery system
• Integration with the farm’s existing 3-phase supply and load profile
🔄 Inverters & Energy Management
• Installation of 3-phase hybrid inverters, allowing seamless management of solar generation, battery storage, and site demand
• System configured to prioritise on-site usage before export
🔋 Battery Storage
• 30kW battery storage system installed to store excess daytime generation
• Enables evening and early-morning farm loads to be supported by stored solar energy
• Provides improved energy resilience and reduced peak import from the grid
Testing, Commissioning & Compliance
The project included full:
- Inspection and testing of all AC and DC circuits
- Verification of earthing and protection systems
- Inverter configuration and system commissioning
- Performance checks to ensure correct generation and battery operation
All works were carried out in accordance with current electrical regulations and best practice for commercial and agricultural environments.
Outcome
The completed system delivers:
✔ Over 30kW of on-site renewable generation
✔ Reduced operational energy costs for the farm
✔ Lower carbon footprint
✔ Improved energy independence through battery storage
✔ Robust infrastructure designed for demanding agricultural conditions
This project demonstrates our expertise in ground-mount solar, three-phase systems, and agricultural electrical installations, providing reliable, future-proof renewable solutions for rural businesses.Looking Ahead
