The Farming Sector Impact On Renewable Energy

The spread of coronavirus and its positive impact on both climate change and pollution, has led to a renewed focus on renewable energy and our national interest in achieving net-zero.

We wrote only last week about why net-zero matters so much, with the current global pandemic prompting World Leaders to call for increased support, as we move on a path that resembles some element of normality. That said, our recent article suggests that Covid-19 really could be the catalyst for the beginning of the end of our energy as we know it.

One sector that has already been taking significant strides towards this goal, is the farming sector. Currently, global agriculture contributes around one fifth of all global greenhouse gas emissions – a figure that is expected to drop by as much as 20%, as measures are being implemented to reduce up to 4.6 gigatons of Co2 emissions by 2050. The core strategy here is the introduction of sustainable and energy efficient solutions. 

One suggestion being widely considered, is the widespread use of solar PV panels within agriculture. With large expanses of unused land, and vast flat roofing on buildings, farms are ideal for large installations that can generate substantial amounts of electricity and offset much of their consumption. Our recent article highlights the importance of solar, outlining the fact it has been able to provide a significant amount of clean energy – more than 11% of the energy demand within the UK, since April 10th.

Agriculture has always been quick to adopt new practices to help improve their way of working. If the sector can adapt further, and help shape the progression to more efficient energy sources, others may quickly follow. There are current grants to encourage farms across the country to adopt a move to solar, with reducing cost in panels and increasing efficiency at the forefront of them. Combine this with a potential renewed focus from the public and government, it is possible to see positive change in the longer term.

There have also been studies and suggestions to other forms of sustainable help that could reduce the impact farming has on the environment. One suggestion has been centred around urban farming, as a study found that growing fruit and vegetables in just 10% of a city’s green space could provide a five a day for up to 90,000 people.

We are now coming through the other side of a difficult couple of months of disruption. As such, finding clean and alternative methods for reaching a proposed net zero may now become more important. Utility Trade Group can assist with the provision of sustainable and clean energy – so get in touch today if we can help.