Thinking about solar? Start here | Ep. 129
Environment • 08 Jul 2026 • 23:48 min
Power costs continue to rise, and a lot of farmers are asking the same question: could solar work on my farm?
In this episode, you’ll hear from Chris McArthur from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority’s (EECA) Solar on Farms programme and Rhys Mackenzie, a dairy farmer who’s making the move to solar on his farm. Together, they talk through what solar and batteries can realistically do on a dairy farm, where they add value, and what you need to think about before you invest.
You’ll get independent advice from Chris McArthur, alongside practical on-farm insight from Rhys Mackenzie as he shares what sparked the decision, what surprised him, and what he’d tell other farmers thinking about solar.
EECA Solar helpline for farmers A dedicated solar helpline for farmers and growers, providing independent, practical guidance to help you make informed decisions. Call the team on 0800 300 643, or email us at solar@eeca.govt.nz
Links mentioned in this episode
For more information and other sources mentioned in this episode, follow the links below:
Read the farm case study: Fairbank Farms
https://www.eeca.govt.nz/insights/case-studies-and-articles/fairbank-farms-battery-backed-dairy/
Watch Fairbank Farms' experience with solar on farm
https://youtu.be/BQwnFQxXVRg
Sign up to find out about EECA solar on farms news and opens days
https://www.eeca.govt.nz/about/contact-us/solar-on-farms-updates/
Solar power on farm information
/environment/climate/solar-power-on-farm/
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