Agricultural businesses face rising energy costs, and finding smarter ways to manage those expenses is key to staying competitive. One solution that’s gaining traction is battery storage. Not only does it make good financial sense, but it can also help you manage energy more effectively, particularly during peak times when electricity prices spike.
How does battery storage work?
In simple terms, battery storage allows you to store energy during off-peak periods, when it's cheaper, or when your on-site renewables like solar panels produce excess power. You can then use this stored energy when it’s more expensive to buy from the grid. By shifting your energy usage in this way, you reduce your reliance on grid power during peak hours, helping to cut costs.
Key benefits of battery storage for agriculture:
Avoiding peak charges: Energy prices tend to soar during peak demand periods. With a battery storage system, you can rely on stored energy rather than paying higher rates during these times.
Making the most of off-peak tariffs: Many suppliers offer lower rates during off-peak hours. By charging your battery during these periods, you can save money by using this cheaper energy when it’s needed most.
Reducing demand charges: Agricultural operations often face demand charges based on their highest power usage at any given time. Battery storage can help by releasing energy during peak demand, reducing these charges and lowering your overall bill.
Flexibility in energy contract negotiations: With battery storage, you’re less reliant on expensive grid power, giving you more leverage when it comes to negotiating your next energy contract. You can avoid locking into high rates and enjoy more favourable terms.
Futureproofing against price increases: The energy market can be volatile, and prices can rise unexpectedly. By using battery storage, you protect your business from these sudden hikes, storing cheaper energy and using it when rates increase.
Is battery storage right for your agricultural business?
While battery storage can offer significant benefits, it's important to assess whether it's the right fit for your farm. The effectiveness of the system depends on your energy usage patterns, the terms of your current energy contract, and the ability to invest in the technology. However, if your agricultural business experiences high demand charges or uses a lot of energy during peak hours, battery storage could be a valuable tool to cut costs and improve efficiency.
If you’re interested in learning more about battery storage contact a member of our team at energyservices@cla.org.uk or 0808 164 6151.
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