Solar for farms and equestrian properties: what to consider

Farms and equestrian properties use electricity in very different ways. A dairy, a riding school and a storage barn may have similar roofs, but their energy needs can call for different solar designs.

Understand when you use electricity

Start with recent electricity bills and, if available, interval-use data from your supplier or meter. Identify the equipment that runs during daylight and the work that happens early in the morning or after dark.

Make a note of seasonal changes, planned equipment and any separate buildings or supplies. This gives an installer a more useful starting point than roof area alone.

Compare the roof and the land

Solar output depends on the site, including the direction panels face and shading. A roof survey also needs to consider its condition and suitability for the proposed installation.

Ground-mounted panels may be an option where suitable land is available. Ask how a proposal would affect access, current land use and future plans. Site-specific planning and grid-connection requirements should be checked before work is agreed.

Check permissions and connection requirements early

Planning and electricity-network checks are separate parts of the project. In England, some non-domestic solar installations can use permitted development rights, but limits and conditions apply. Ask what applies to your building or land, who will handle any applications, and whether those checks affect the proposed programme.

Consider storage around your working day

A battery can store electricity for later, but it should have a clear purpose in the design. Ask whether it is intended to shift daytime generation into evening use, support a tariff strategy, or provide a specifically designed backup function.

A larger battery is not automatically a better fit. Compare usable capacity, power output, operating assumptions and the equipment you want to run.

Make the full installation scope visible

Ask the written proposal to identify any roof repairs, scaffolding, groundworks, trenching and cable runs between buildings. Agree access arrangements around horses, livestock, deliveries and your working hours. The online estimate is a starting point; these property-specific details need checking before the final scope and price are agreed.

Make the proposal easy to compare

• Ask for the expected generation and the assumptions behind it.

• Check which buildings and electricity supplies are included.

• Discuss roof work, access and installation disruption.

• Ask what the system can do during a power cut.

• Clarify monitoring, warranties and aftercare.

Solar Acre works with homes, businesses and rural properties across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. Request a free survey to discuss your farm or equestrian property.

Further reading: Energy Saving Trust: solar panels.

Planning guidance for England: Planning Portal: non-domestic solar panels. Check the requirements for your site with the local planning authority.

Content reviewed on 9 September 2026.